No more finger-pointing; DCEs to take full responsibility for mining license approvals - Lands Minister

In a significant policy shift, Ghana's Lands Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor has announced that District Chief Executives (DCEs) will now bear full responsibility for approving mining licenses within their jurisdictions. This move aims to streamline the licensing process and ensure greater accountability among local leaders. During a recent meeting with DCEs in Accra, Jinapor emphasized the need for effective oversight in the management of mineral resources, which he described as a vital aspect of national development.

The minister’s directive comes amidst growing concerns over environmental degradation and illegal mining activities, often attributed to lapses in regulatory enforcement. By transferring the onus of responsibility onto DCEs, Jinapor hopes to mitigate these issues and foster more sustainable mining practices. He urged local government officials to prioritize transparency and community engagement in their decision-making processes.

This change marks a departure from previous practices where blame for licensing challenges was often deflected among various stakeholders. The minister's call for decisive action reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing governance in the mining sector while maximizing its economic benefits for local communities.