Former President John Dramani Mahama announced over the weekend that a future National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will introduce a Cooperative Mining Policy to enhance local participation and benefits for mining communities. Speaking to the Paramount Chief of the Talensi Traditional Area, Tong-Raan Kugbilsong Nalebgetang, and other local leaders during his campaign tour, Mahama outlined the policy’s objective to enable local residents to gain greater benefits from their natural resources.

The proposed policy will facilitate the formation of cooperatives composed of local individuals who will be trained, registered, and provided with green-fields concessions for gold mining. This initiative aims to create job opportunities for young people in the mining sector while ensuring sustainable mining practices that protect the environment.

“There are two major mining companies operating in this area, and many young people are eager to be involved in mining. The Cooperative Mining Policy will enable locals to benefit from the resources they are blessed with,” Mahama said.

In addition to the new policy, Mahama pledged that his administration would require large-scale mining companies to prioritize the training and employment of local residents to combat unemployment and illegal mining. He also promised to ensure that these companies fulfill their corporate social responsibilities by investing in the community and paying appropriate royalties.

Mahama reiterated his commitment to completing infrastructure projects initiated by the previous NDC administration, including the E-Block at Yameriga, which were left unfinished after losing power in 2016. He urged constituents to vote for the NDC in the December 7 polls to enable the party to return to power and drive progress for job creation.

Tong-Raan Nalebgtang expressed support for Mahama’s plans and urged him to fulfill his promises and prioritize the development of the Talensi area if the NDC wins the upcoming election.