
A Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mining, George Mireku Duker, has emphasised the critical importance of recruiting highly skilled technical personnel to enhance the success of mining operations in Ghana.
Speaking to journalists after his working tour of Gold Team Mining Company on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, he said the recruitment of personnel with the right technical knowledge and experience is integral to the success of mining companies.
The tour of the company also brought to light several areas in the company’s operational capabilities where improvements are needed.
Among the key observations made during the tour were the absence of a comprehensive security and safety plan, power supply challenges, issues with ore recovery, and a noticeable lack of Ghanaian representation in the management team of the company.
Measures
To address these concerns, Mr Duker urged the company’s management to hire a reputable security professional to establish an effective and enforceable security plan to protect the company and its resources.
He also stressed the need to tap into the wealth of technical expertise available in the country to address ore recovery issues.
Additionally, the Deputy Minister encouraged the company to collaborate with other mining companies and industry players to exchange information and knowledge on overcoming similar challenges that have hampered their operations.
He promised that the Ministry, through the Minerals Commission, would provide engineers and experts to offer essential technical guidance to the company.
“We have spotted a few things that internally we will discuss with them and find ways of helping them. The Minerals Commission also has engineers who can help them, so we engage more,” he stated.
Satisfied
Despite these challenges, Mr Duker expressed his satisfaction with the company’s commitment to environmental protection and its adherence to the principles of its mining license.
He commended the company for its employment of over 300 Ghanaians and the positive relationship it maintains with the local community in its operational area.
The Deputy Minister believes that with the right technical assistance and personnel, the company can significantly increase its productivity and efficiency.
CSR
In response, Mr. Michael Lee, the Managing Director of Golden Team Mining Company, outlined several corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by the company and pledged their commitment to delivering even more.
He also highlighted some specific challenges and appealed to the Deputy Minister for assistance in addressing these concerns.