MDF pledges sustainable development for mining communities by 2026

The Minerals Development Fund reiterated its commitment to sustainable development in Ghana’s mining communities in a New Year message from Administrator Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw‑Kotei.

Established under Act 912, the fund is tasked with improving living standards, protecting the environment and ensuring that the nation’s mineral resources drive inclusive growth. “We remain committed to protecting our environment and ensuring that Ghana’s mineral resources drive sustainable development in mining communities and beyond,” Dr. Bisiw‑Kotei said.

She outlined plans for 2026, emphasising new partnerships, expanded reclamation surveillance and a rollout of a green‑technology mining initiative. “May the New Year bring renewed hope, stronger partnerships and greater impact for our mining communities,” the administrator added.

Illegal mining continues to threaten lives, with fifteen pit‑collapse deaths recorded in the Ashanti Region last year. The fund has intervened by halting illegal excavations around Atatam DA Basic School, covering hazardous pits and reducing exposure to heavy metals.

In 2025 the fund supplied educational materials to the school’s pupils, sparking excitement among students who said the resources would positively affect their learning. The MDF plans to target other vulnerable institutions with similar interventions this year.

Reclamation efforts are gaining momentum as small‑scale miners, encouraged by the fund, begin restoring depleted lands. The MDF has pledged to pursue operators who leave pits unfilled, and will increase surveillance across affected districts in 2026.

The Sustainable Mining Initiative, piloted in the Ahafo Region, employs mercury‑free processing and water‑saving technologies. Following the pilot’s success, the fund intends to expand the initiative to additional mining communities throughout the country.

Stakeholders view the fund’s renewed focus as a vital step toward curbing environmental degradation while improving livelihoods. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is expected to monitor implementation and report on progress later in the year.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE