The Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has made a clarion call on the government to prioritize Ghanaians in the allocation of mining concessions before entertaining international companies seeking partnerships in the mining sector.
Otumfuo made this statement at a meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission at the Manhyia Palace.
During the meeting, a proposal was made to the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs on the review of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
The review sought to empower traditional leaders in their role of enforcing the proper utilization of our natural vegetation, which has been entrusted to them, and to enhance the government’s capacity to promote sound environmental practices in the mining sector for a healthier community.
Speaking at the occasion on July 18, His Royal Highness stressed the need for local investors to be empowered in the mining sector.
“Ghanaians must be given preference when it comes to mining concessions. They should decide if they want to collaborate with foreign investors later on, and this strategy will make the local currency stronger”, he frantically stated.
“They can acquire money to buy equipment for mining operations here in Ghana by listing on the stock exchange when they have the lease. Don’t our youth deserve the chance to invest in the stock market and make money as well?”
The Asantehene further explained that the Minerals Commission is not at fault, stating that the state owns the minerals even though chiefs have custodial rights over the land. He pointed out that constitutional revision is required to address any modifications to this legal framework.
