Mining leases tied to community development – Lands Minister

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has said he will be reluctant to extend mining leases to companies that do not actively contribute in the country’s development.

Speaking at a meeting with management of Gold Fields Ghana Ltd. on Friday, Mr. Buah reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that mining benefits translate into community development and increased local content participation.

“We want mining companies to understand and appreciate their responsibilities to host communities,” he said.

Mr. Buah described Gold Fields as a key partner in the country’s mining sector and urged the company to strengthen its local content initiatives to ensure mining activities yield tangible benefits for communities.

He also assured the company that government will expedite approval processes for its joint venture with AngloGold Ashanti, aimed at creating Africa’s largest gold mine and positioning Ghana as a mining hub.

The minister commended Gold Fields for its corporate social initiatives, particularly its local content programmes and sustainable livelihood projects.

Gold Fields reaffirms commitment to local development

Gold Fields’ Acting Managing Director, Elliott Twum, assured the ministry of the company’s dedication to developing mining projects that benefit host communities and the broader economy.

He outlined Gold Fields’ commitment to environmental and social interventions, local content promotion and strengthening business supply chains.

Mr. Twum said the company’s visit also aimed to congratulate the minister on his appointment and reaffirm the mining sector’s support for his leadership.

Michael Edem Akafia, Gold Fields’ Vice President of External Affairs, highlighted the company’s ongoing collaboration with the ministry to improve livelihoods of local communities.

He cited key social intervention projects undertaken in recent years, including improvements to the Tarkwa-Damang road, investments in oil palm plantations and agribusiness initiatives.

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