Dr. Tony Aubynn, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, is urging small-scale mining leaders in Obuasi to back the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, in the upcoming elections.
Dr. Aubynn highlighted that the NDC is focused on implementing reforms within the small-scale mining sector that will not only ensure better governance but also create lasting benefits for both the government and local miners. He emphasized that these reforms are aimed at fostering sustainable mining practices, improving the livelihoods of miners, and contributing to the overall development of mining communities.
Speaking to miners in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region during the party’s campaign in the area, Dr. Aubynn emphasized the NDC’s long-standing commitment to the small-scale mining sector. He reiterated the party’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing miners and ensuring that the sector is properly regulated for the benefit of both miners and the nation.
He pointed out that “former President Rawlings took significant steps to regularize small-scale mining in order to empower local miners, especially at a time when the sector was heavily dominated by foreign interests.”
Dr. Aubynn highlighted that the NDC has consistently prioritized the needs of small-scale miners and is committed to continuing efforts to create an enabling environment that allows them to operate effectively and sustainably, ensuring long-term success for the sector.
He explained, “Small-scale mining has been a part of Ghana’s history for decades, but after independence, it was criminalized for locals. It wasn’t until 1989, under former President Jerry John Rawlings, that the laws were changed to allow local participation in small-scale mining. The NDC has never opposed small-scale mining,” he added.
However, he clarified that while the NDC supports small-scale mining, it opposes irresponsible mining practices that damage the environment, pollute water bodies, and destroy forest reserves.
Dr. Aubynn stated, “During our campaign in mining areas, we’ve observed and learned a great deal from you, the miners. We recognize that not all mining sites are engaged in illegal practices or environmental degradation.”
He also noted that the NDC’s Committee on Mining is composed of industry leaders, mining engineers, and technical safety experts who are ready to offer miners technical advice, training, and guidance to help improve their operations and ensure better practices in the sector.
Dr. Aubynn urged the mining site owners across the country to consider halting site operations for two days before the December 7, 2024, elections to allow workers to exercise their voting rights.
The aim of the Obuasi NDC mining Conference was to explain the party policies and plans for the NDC for the small-scale mining sector.
