Geological mapping uncovers untapped mineral resources

Geological and geochemical mapping of eight selected areas are showing very good unexplored mineral resources, such as gold in the Ashanti belt and iron, nickel and chrome in the Nkwanta area along the border with Togo.

Making a presentation at an exhibition to showcase the achievements of the Mining Sector Support Programme (MSSP), Mr. Claude Maerten, Head of the European Union Delegation to Ghana said the areas discovered through their support programme hold enormous promise for future mining prospecting in Ghana.

He said that there are potential for the discovery of new resources in gold and base metals outside the Volta Basin.

A total of 39 million euros has been disbursed since the programme’s inception in December 2002, and has minimized mines' negative environmental impacts.

“The support provided through the MSSP is unparalleled and it is the strong hope of the European Union that the very best efforts are made of utilizing the finding and achievements of the project.”

He indicated that the country is at the forefront in implementing the extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).

“Already much has been achieved under this project which has been assisted also with funds from the natural resources and environmental governance sector budget supports.

“The implementation of initiatives such as the EITI and Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) send strong signals to the citizenry that the government seeks accountability and transparency in vital sectors and for investors.”

Mr. Henry Ford Kamel, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who read a speech on behalf of the Vice President, John Mahama, said the MSSP had achieved institutional development and modernization at the sector Ministry as well as some related departments and agencies, which has enabled them to perform efficiently.

Dr Joyce Aryee, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, urged government to pay special attention to the mining sector, especially the development of the Western Corridors.

The Western Corridor Infrastructure project when completed will help in improving the Western Railway line and to augment haulage of bauxite and manganese from the mines to the ports.