The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Emmanuel Kofi Armah-Buah, is set to officially inaugurate three cooperative mining projects later this month as part of government efforts to promote responsible small-scale mining and curb illegal mining activities.

The projects include the long-awaited Nkaseim Cooperative Mining Project in the Asutifi South District; the Abompe and Kokotia Cooperative Mining Project in the Obuasi West District; a cooperative mining site in the Nzema East Municipality; and another at Atronsu in the Western North Region.

The Nkaseim project, together with the other sites, is scheduled to be inaugurated at the end of February at a colourful ceremony expected to attract traditional authorities, community members and key stakeholders in the mining sector. 

The cooperative mining initiative is aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities for the youth, stimulating local economic activity, and significantly reducing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Ahead of the opening, extensive preparations are underway to ensure a successful launch. 

Officials of the Minerals Commission and the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) completed the registration of cooperative members since last year in accordance with directives from the sector minister.

The officials also carried out inspections of the project sites to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards and engaged relevant stakeholders as part of the registration and verification process.

Traditional authorities and residents in the beneficiary communities have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will promote orderly mining practices and improve livelihoods.