The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mining George Mireku Duker has held a fruitful discussion with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace over progress made on Newmont’s Ghana Ahafo-North project.
He briefed Asantehene on the project and held discussions with some traditional rulers and other key stakeholders on the life-changing impact the project will make not just in the area of operation but also on the country’s socio-economic development.
Mr. Duker explained to the Asantehene that the Ministry and other state institutions are fully convinced that the Newmont Ahafo North project is in the interest of residents in the area and the country at large.
He also indicated that the discussions on the commissioning of the project is at an advanced stage and that, Newmont has shown commitment to undertake developmental projects which are of great importance to the affected communities.
Mr Duker, however, pleaded for the swift intervention of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in a current deadlock that may threaten the birth of the project.
Mr Duker again assured the Asantehene that the Ministry has considered all factors and believes that, it will be inimical to the progress of the mining industry, if the stand-off continues.
The Newmont Ahafo-North Project is expected to begin in coming days as directed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
When started, the project will create both direct and indirect jobs and significantly impact on the socio-economic development of the area and the country at large.
