George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has emphasised that exploitation of natural resources in Ghana and Africa at large must result in tangible benefits for the general population.

According to him, there must be synergistic relationship between mining industries and the citizens characterised by equal beneficiaries for both exploiters and the citizenry and equitable management of natural resources.

In a speech delivered at a Stakeholder Forum organised by the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), the Deputy Minister emphasised on the need for African countries to create symbiotic relationship that culminates in wealth creation for every party involved in the chain. This, he reckons, can be attained through the deliberate and coordinated efforts of raising local giants in the industry.

“I reiterated to the gathering and colleague African Ministers that exploitation of Africa’s Natural Resources must meet the expectations of her citizens. The expectation of the ordinary Ghanaian is to benefit from the Minerals revenue of the state and we must ensure it is done”, he stated.

“The good people of Tarkwa, an enclave that accounts for over 40% of total gold produced in country and home to the only Manganese Mine, are very happy that, their road network from Takoradi to Tarkwa is being constructed. You can imagine the attacks, when their roads were bad and knowing how much they contribute to the State’s exchequer”, he added

“Let me repeat: Without the value chain development intended to create local wealth from the resources, acquire know-how and boost employment, we will forever live on scraps and not enjoy our God-given natural resources.”

Mireku Duker motioned that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s government has taken the lead in that regard by ensuring that small-scale mining sector is reserved exclusively for Ghanaians.

He listed a number of companies whose successful stories sheds light on the positive and impactful outcome of the commendable policies instituted by government in the mining industry.

“President Nana Akufo-Addo has given us our marching orders to create wealth for Ghanaians, and the laws are aligning in the mining sector more quickly than expected. For instance, mining supplies, thanks to the work of the Minerals Commission and my Ministry, are wholly in the hands of Ghanaians now. For example, Tailings Storage Facility construction, Medical Services, Assaying and Motor Rewinding are now reserved exclusively for Ghanaian businesses.”

The Deputy Minister was glowing in his commendation of MIIF for the strategic role they have played so far but tasked them to liaise with the Minerals Commission, University of Mines and Technology and other relevant agencies to development a framework for deepening engagement between mining agencies and effective management of Ghana’s natural resources.

For his part, the Chief Executive Officer of MIIF, Mr. Edward Nana yaw Koranteng mentioned the need for his outfit to develop partnership with company and industry players to undertake various projects that will ensure that the works of MIIF are manifested in the country.