Local mining contractors urge President-elect Mahama to review Minerals Commission charges

The Association of Local Mining Contractors has called on President-Elect John Dramani Mahama to urgently address the high permit and operational charges imposed by the Minerals Commission.

They are demanding that within three months of assuming office, the incoming administration implement significant reductions in these charges and ensure they are billed in Ghana cedis rather than U.S. dollars.

Samuel Aboagye, the General Secretary of the Association, voiced these concerns during a media briefing. He criticized the Minerals Commission for failing to justify the sharp increases in fees, which he described as a burden on local businesses.

He noted that local companies previously paid GH¢10,000 annually for permits, while sole proprietors were charged GH¢5,000. However, these fees have now skyrocketed, with local companies required to pay over GH¢50,000 and sole proprietors GH¢25,000.

"It is mind-boggling that local mining contractors are being subjected to such exorbitant charges simply because of their status as contractors," Aboagye lamented.

The association also expressed frustration over the practice of quoting fees in dollars, despite members conducting their transactions in Ghana cedis.

"The Association has submitted an official proposal to the NPP government regarding these concerns, but they have remained unaddressed," Aboagye stated.

He further emphasized that the unexplained fee hikes are crippling the operations of local contractors and pose a threat to the survival of the industry.

The association recalled a pledge made by John Dramani Mahama during a meeting with them in Sunyani when he was the NDC flagbearer. According to Aboagye, Mahama promised to review and reduce these charges if elected, a promise they are now urging him to fulfil.

"We trust that President-elect Mahama will take swift action to address this pressing issue, as failure to do so could lead to the collapse of the local mining industry," Aboagye stressed.

The Association of Local Mining Contractors is hopeful that the incoming administration will prioritize their concerns, ensuring the sustainability and growth of local businesses in the mining sector.

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