Mineral Development Fund To Ensure Equitable Distribution of Wealth – Dr. Hanna Bisiw
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in partnership with the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), has initiated a stakeholder forum aimed at fostering visionary leadership that directs mineral revenue towards developmental initiatives in areas affected by mining.
This initiative encompasses communities, traditional authorities, and local governments, with the goal of ensuring a fair distribution of mineral wealth throughout Ghana.
The forum, titled ‘Sustainable Mineral Wealth: Ensuring Equitable Benefits for All,’ featured remarks from Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, who noted that mining plays a crucial role in the Ghanaian economy.
Speaking at the launched of stakeholder forum in Accra, Dr. Bisiw highlighted that it contributes approximately 40% of the nation’s foreign exchange earnings and 5.7% of its GDP, with gold accounting for over 90% of total mineral exports.
Dr. Bisiw-Kotei emphasized that the Minerals Development Fund has the capacity to transform mining communities and facilitate development projects that benefit local residents, traditional authorities, and local governments.
She expressed confidence in the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, asserting that the MDF’s establishment is a permanent step towards achieving its vision of enhancing the lives of individuals in mining communities.
Furthermore, she announced initiatives to train 1,500 young people with disabilities in fabrication and other skills, as well as the introduction of a zero-cost farming initiative that includes a project for a 100,000-fish farm and a fish processing facility.
In addressing ongoing challenges, Dr. Bisiw-Kotei condemned illegal mining for its detrimental environmental effects, such as water pollution and the destruction of farmland, and committed to working with relevant institutions to tackle these issues.
The MDF is viewed as a transformative force, implementing sustainable projects that will have enduring benefits for future generations.
In a speech presented by Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, who serves as an Advisor to the Vice President and is a former Local Government Minister,, emphasized that the true essence of national advancement is not found in the extraction of natural resources, but rather in uplifting individuals from poverty, empowering communities, and ensuring a fair distribution of benefits.
Furthermore, she remarked, ‘It is imperative that we collaborate to guarantee that mineral revenues are managed with transparency and accountability, allowing for equitable sharing of mining benefits among all stakeholders.’
Looking forward, Her Excellency Vice President Jane Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the necessity of fostering open dialogue to achieve a fair distribution of mineral wealth, thereby lifting individuals out of poverty and empowering them.
The MDF will focus on developmental initiatives, particularly income-generating projects, to support mining communities and encourage sustainable mining practices.