rCOMSDEP Advances Responsible Mining with Cooperative Launch in Prestea Huni Valley
The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) has highlighted its commitment to responsible small-scale mining through the launch of cooperative mining societies in the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region. The event brought together government representatives, traditional authorities, mining stakeholders and prospective cooperative members around a shared vision of a more organised and sustainable mining sector.
The cooperatives identified for the launch are TAX ES Responsible Cooperative Mining Society and Bogum and Alignment Responsible Cooperative Mining Society. Their introduction represents a step towards a cooperative approach that encourages accountability, improved safety practices and opportunities for miners to work within a more structured framework.
Partnership and community participation
The programme outline names the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, as special guest of honour, with the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, also scheduled to participate in the presentation of certificates and permits. Other listed contributors include rCOMSDEP National Coordinator Shehu Siddiq; the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Mathew Ayeh; Member of Parliament Hon. Robert Wisdom Cudjoe; and representatives of the Minerals Commission and the Department of Cooperatives.
Traditional leadership and community voices were also central to the programme. Nana Akwasi Somprey II, Divisional Chief of Bogoso Kokoase, was listed as chairman, while cultural performances and contributions from local participants reflected the importance of community ownership in responsible mining.
Building a more sustainable mining future
Through the cooperative model, rCOMSDEP seeks to support responsible mining practices while strengthening opportunities for skills development, local enterprise and sustainable livelihoods. The programme places emphasis on collaboration among miners, regulators, community leaders and government institutions to help promote safer and more accountable operations.
The Prestea Huni Valley engagement underscores the importance of ensuring that mining communities are part of Ghana’s broader efforts to improve governance in the sector, protect the environment and create lasting economic value for local people.
