BRACE project launched in Eastern Region to improve sustainable mining

The BRACE project, implemented by a consortium of not-for-profit organizations WACAM and Nature and Development Foundation (NDF)) led by A Rocha Ghana has been launched at Asikam in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

The European Union (EU) not long ago launched the, “Building Resilient and Active Communities in Extractive Landscapes in Ghana (BRACE)”, project in Ghana aimed at improving sustainable mining to safeguard the environment and protect individuals living in mining areas.

BRACE underscores the EU’s strong commitment to fostering responsible resource extraction practices that prioritize environmental preservation and the well-being of local communities.

With EUR 1.718 million in funding from the European Union, this will ensure adherence to human rights, transparency, and accountability in mineral governance by contributing to sustainable and equitable environmental management and good natural resource governance in Ghana.

“Mining is important for local jobs and revenues. But mining operations can cause serious damage to local communities and the environment”, said Deputy National Director of A Rocha Ghana, Daryl Bosu.

He noted that Ghana’s extractive sector is vital to the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenues while mining in rural areas also provides much-needed income and jobs to many.

He noted that the last two decades of irresponsible mining practices by licensed and unlicensed mining operators have resulted in serious negative environmental and social impacts. Communities residing near large-scale mining sites endure loss of land, contamination of water sources by toxic substances, and health diseases.

“A responsible mining sector is urgently needed and possible. We are ready to act with our partners to make mining better work for the people and minimize environmental impacts. We want to open up ways for a more sustainable development of Ghana”, he added.

During the project launch, Daryl Bosu reiterated the significance of acknowledging the diverse interests within our landscapes, spanning food and water security, sustainable forest management for ecosystem services, and climate resilience. He stressed the urgent need for a balanced mining framework respecting community rights to benefit from these various land uses.

In his project overview presentation, Daryl Bosu highlighted Ghana’s exceptional opportunity to leverage the ongoing review of minerals and mining policy to prioritize social and environmental protections. He emphasized the importance of mainstreaming Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) as the foundation of mineral governance in Ghana, particularly amidst the expansion of the extractive sector for transition minerals.

In attendance were reps from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Director of the Water Resource Commission Mr. Kaba, Madam Stella the district director of the Ministry of Food & Agriculture, assembly members from various communities, and over 10 communities were in attendance.