The Bawku West District Chief Executive, James Ayamwego, has called for strict environmental safeguards in the proposed gold mining project at Zongoiri, warning that mining activities must not threaten agricultural livelihoods, water resources and public health.
He said although the proposed investment by Maripoma Mining Services Limited could create employment and stimulate economic activities, its potential environmental and social consequences must be carefully assessed before approval is granted.
Mr Ayamwego made the remarks at a public hearing organised by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on the company’s proposed surface gold mining and processing project at Zongoiri in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region.
The hearing brought together traditional leaders, youth and women’s groups, farmers, assembly members, heads of departments and residents of Zongoiri and surrounding communities to discuss the project’s potential environmental and social impacts.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Ayamwego said the District Assembly recognised the potential economic benefits of responsible mining, particularly its contribution to job creation, local businesses and revenue generation.
“As a district assembly, we recognise the potential contribution of responsible mining activities to local economic development. Such investment can create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, improve household income and contribute to the revenue base of the district assembly,” he stated.
He expressed hope that, if approved and properly managed, the project would create meaningful employment opportunities for young people in Zongoiri and neighbouring communities.
However, the DCE cautioned that poorly regulated mining activities could have serious consequences for the environment and residents’ livelihoods.
“Issues related to land degradation, water pollution, destruction of vegetation, air pollution, public safety, compensation, resettlement and loss of agricultural land must therefore be given the necessary attention,” he said.
Mr Ayamwego stressed that agriculture remained the main source of livelihood for many households in Bawku West and should not be undermined by mining operations.
“Any mining investment must be undertaken in a manner that does not unnecessarily undermine our crop production, compromise our water resources or expose our people to environmental and health risks,” he stated.
He further clarified that the Assembly’s participation in the public hearing did not constitute approval or an unconditional endorsement of the proposed project.
“Our support for this engagement should, however, not be construed as a predetermined endorsement or approval of the proposed mining site,” he said.
During the hearing, residents raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposed mine on farmlands, water sources, dust pollution and noise levels. They also sought assurances about employment opportunities for young people in the affected communities.
EPA officials assured residents that the concerns raised would be incorporated into the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and considered before a decision is made on whether to issue an environmental permit.
The Human Resource Manager of Maripoma Mining Services Limited, Richard Danso, who led the company’s presentation, assured residents of the company’s commitment to working with stakeholders and ensuring that host communities benefit from the proposed investment.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bulinga-Zongoiri
