Poor public perception hurting mining industry

Stakeholders in the mining industry have condemned the increasing negative and erroneous perceptions about the mining industry, which they say sometimes informs government’s policy on the industry.

Recently, the mining industry has come under intense scrutiny following concerns that the host communities are not reaping any benefits since they are deprived of crucial development projects, such as poor unmotorable roads, lack of potable water and other basic amenities.

However, the industry has contributed to the country’s development in terms of corporate taxes and fiscal returns in spite of alleged claims of pollution and degradation of the mining environment among others.

These perceptions, which need to be corrected, have led to mistrust between the industry, government and community members and also tend to create tensions.

Notwithstanding, it was observed that the industry’s contribution to the socio-economic gains of the country has been significant and recognised by the government.

Mr. Dan Owiredu, President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, addressing participants of the ‘2014 Expanded Council Meeting’ of mining stakeholders in Kumasi, expressed optimism that the industry players will continue to dialogue and take a critical look at these perceptions in order to minimise their impact through individual and collective efforts.

He observed that among the challenges which need to be considered in relations to development within the mining industry is how to make mining relevant to communities. He was hopeful that the deliberations will go a long way to deepen the Chamber’s advocacy efforts.

“It is a glaring truth that mining companies have an unrivalled track record when it comes to the area of contribution toward community development, but the industry can do more, and it is my hope that members will continue to make their operations meaningful not just to the host communities, but the economy as well,” he said.

He charged participants at the meeting to help develop strategies to foster a better understanding of the role the industry plays as a catalyst for development and how to tackle the fiscal challenges facing the industry, and continue to meet social and legal obligations to the state.

Alhaji Inusah Fusieni, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, in an address read on his behalf, lauded the immense contribution of the mining industry to the economy over the years.

He said, for instance that, in 2012 alone, an estimated amount of US$26million was invested in a variety of social infrastructure in the mining communities. This notwithstanding, he said, conscientious efforts must be made to achieve more.

He gave an account of the various interventions government has made to address the growing menace of illegal mining activities, which are wreaking havoc on the environment and water-bodies in the country.

He asked the Chamber to collaborate further with government to bring activities of illegal miners under control. He mentioned the ‘tributer system ,' whereby the activities of some ‘galamsey’ operators will be brought under the watch of some well-established mining firms as part of the intended measures.

By Kizito Cudjoe | B&FT Online | Ghana