As part of efforts to create jobs through responsible and sustainable small-scale mining, the government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has established a community mining scheme (CMS) concession at Himang Ankobrah, in the Prestea-Huni Valley District of the Western Region.

Speaking during the launching ceremony, the sector Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, pointed out that this one brings the total number of opened CMS to 25.

CMS is a community-centred mining module that promotes local participation in responsible harnessing of Ghana’s mineral resources. The 24th CMS was recently launched at Bompieso, also in the Prestea-Huni Valley Municipality.

The Lands Minister stressed that the Himang Ankobrah CSM would provide sustainable and profitable employment opportunities to more than 8,000 people in the area. This, according to him, will directly contribute to the transformation of the economic lives of the inhabitants of the community and residents.

He, therefore, charged the traditional leaders and indigenes in the area to be responsible in protecting the water bodies in the area. He re-emphasised the need to avoid the mistakes of the past, by mining in a manner that would not degrade the landscape, water bodies and the environment.

Mr. Jinapor urged mine workers to prioritize adherence to laws and avoid encroaching on protected areas during their operations.

The emphasised the government’s support for small-scale mining, aiming to foster sectoral growth while safeguarding natural resources. He stressed the importance of protecting rivers and forest reserves while ensuring equitable distribution of benefits among citizens.

He expressed confidence in the positive impact of CMS on the economy of Himang and the Prestea-Huni Valley constituency, labelling it a noble undertaking. He cited successful concessions established across the country as evidence of the scheme’s potential.