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Let’s engage in responsible mining – Mireku Duker
Mireku Duker
Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of Mines, Mr George Mireku Duker, has described artisanal mining sector as a precursor of Ghana’s gold production, potential revenue source, and boost to community economy .
He, however, indicated that illegal mining was one challenge confronting growth of the small scale mining sector in Ghana.
Mr Duker made this observation when he gave an overview of ASM gold formalisation at the Ghana Gold Expo which ended last Saturday.
It was on the theme “ Sustainable Mineral Resources Development and well-being of Mining Communities”.
Arguing on the importance of that ASM sector to Ghana’s economy, Mr Duker explained that, the sector was a precursor to large scale exploration companies, source of gold for oil policy, contributed a third of Ghana’s gold production and foreign exchange earnings.
It again contributed 43 per cent of about 2.1 million ounces of total gold production in 2018 and 100 per cent of diamond production, during same period to date.
“Currently, ASM is a significant sector in 13 regions (originally Eastern, Ashanti, Western and Central regions) which provides livelihoods for over three million Ghanaians, contributes to economic growth in local communities, provides raw gold for jewellery industry in Ghana and revenue for district assemblies.” he stressed.
He said “There were opportunities in the ASM sector so we need ownership enhancement, value optimisation and area of service providers. The major challenge is the activities of illegal mining popularly know as galamsey.
“The way forward includes intelligence gathering to identify, arrest and prosecute financiers/ sponsors, additional funding required for Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA), sustain and strengthen Operation Halt II, and deployment of river wardens.”
Mr Duker reiterated the creation of special courts to fast -track the prosecution of offenders, intensification of public education on responsible mining, and called on investors and international community to help fight illegal mining.
“Enforcement of declaration of red zones (forest and water bodies), Operations Halt II, acquisition of speed boats for patrolling river bodies, recruitment of river/mine wardens and establishment of control room to track earth moving equipment,” Mr Duker added.
From Clement Adzei Boye, Takoradi
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Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation –Pres.Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the misuse of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) for personal financial gain by individuals in leadership positions.
Speaking during a meeting with Chief Executives of specified entities under the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) on Thursday, March 13, the President directly attributed the dire state of SOEs to their leadership, accusing chief executives, management teams, and governing boards of prioritising personal enrichment over organisational efficiency.
He pointed to bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures as factors draining public funds while SOEs continue to rely on government bailouts.
“Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation by appointees. The chief executives, management, and boards of these enterprises are responsible for this situation. Some SOEs have become perennial loss-makers, draining public funds with bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures while relying on government bailouts as if entitled to them. Many of these entities are at their lowest point in the entire history of the Fourth Republic,” he said.
President Mahama further noted that many SOEs have been plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement, leading to consistent financial losses. He cited the 2023 State Ownership Report by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), which highlighted systemic inefficiencies and wasteful expenditures within these entities.
He therefore reaffirmed his commitment to reforming under-performing SOEs and ensuring they serve national interests.
He warned that loss-making SOEs will no longer be tolerated and will either be merged, privatised, or closed.
“I will assess you based on your performance. If you do not align with the pace of the reset agenda, you may be asked to step aside. If that adds to the horror movie, so be it,” he added.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
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Prophet Courage Heavens set to launch ‘Predestination’ book on March 23
Prophet Courage A. Heavens is set to launch the much-awaited book titled ‘Predestination’ on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 5:00PM.
The launch, which is expected to impact lives, will take place at Crossgates Ministries, Flattop, off N1 Highway, opposite Angel Hauz.
The book is aimed at addressing the way people struggle to understand how free will and destiny align.
It is also aimed at providing clarity on God’s sovereignty and one’s place in His divine plan.
The various chapters of the book address various issues through scriptures and personal stories.
Committed to impacting society, part of the proceeds from the book will go into Courage Heavens Education Legacy (CHEL), an educational foundation transforming lives.
CHEL is dedicated to providing financial support and mentorship to brilliant but needy students, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.
Prophet Courage Heavens is a prolific writer and previously authored Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani, a powerful book that encourages unwavering faith in times of trials.
In addition, he has written seven more prophetic and life-changing books that are yet to be published.
He is dedicated to raising the next generation for impactful ministry. As the leader of Crossgates Ministries, he nurtures believers in faith and purpose.
