The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (NCSSMAG) has thrown its weight behind the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2024 general elections.

The announcement was made during a nationwide mining conference held in the Ashanti Region after extensive consultations among members of the Association.

The NCSSMAG highlighted the NDC’s proposed mining policies as the primary reason for the endorsement, describing them as the most promising solution to the challenges facing small-scale miners in Ghana.

The Association cited three key reasons for supporting the NDC:

Comprehensive Mining Policies
The NDC manifesto outlines a robust plan for small-scale mining, including:

A nationwide reorganization of the sector to enhance transparency and sustainability. The establishment of a National Small-Scale Mining Support Fund to provide financial aid, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives. Strict enforcement of environmental standards while protecting legitimate miners from undue sanctions. The formation of a Small-Scale Mining Regulatory Council to ensure fairness and streamline licensing processes.

Michael Kwadwo Peprah, President of NCSSMAG, commended the NDC for its detailed and practical approach, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to address the sector’s pressing challenges.

Disillusionment with the NPP
The Association criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for inconsistent policies and superficial promises.

They specifically described Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s pledge to make small-scale miners “billionaires” as unrealistic given the current state of the sector.

Neglect Under the NPP
Since 2017, the NPP administration has faced backlash from miners over alleged favouritism toward politically connected individuals engaging in illegal mining while sidelining legitimate operators. Arbitrary crackdowns and a lack of trust in government interventions have fueled frustrations within the sector.

NDC’s Vision for the Sector

The NDC’s manifesto promises economic growth and environmental sustainability in the mining industry, prioritizing:

Transparent processes for concession allocation. Formalization of artisanal mining to boost revenue and create jobs. Collaboration with traditional authorities to curb illegal mining. Rehabilitation of degraded lands to restore ecological balance.

The NCSSMAG believes these policies will revitalize the sector, create employment opportunities, and foster sustainable practices.

The Association urged its members, along with their families and communities, to support the NDC in the upcoming elections.

“This is not just about politics; it’s about protecting the future of small-scale mining in Ghana,” said Mr. Peprah.