Consortium launches sustainable mining, agriculture initiative in Ghana

A new consortium comprising Engineers and Planners Ltd., Shavan Resources Africa Ltd., and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Ghana, has been established to drive sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development across the country.

The initiative, unveiled in Accra, is aimed at addressing the twin challenges of illegal mining and environmental degradation, while creating jobs and boosting economic growth in affected communities.

According to a statement issued by the consortium, the project will focus on reducing the harmful effects of small-scale mining—popularly known as galamsey—which has been described by security experts as a threat to national stability due to its link with organized crime and widespread destruction of farmlands and water bodies.

The consortium disclosed plans to reclaim lands destroyed by mining and convert them into productive agricultural spaces.

A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be set up to oversee the project’s implementation, ensuring compliance with responsible mining standards and community development goals.

The strategy includes the provision of pre-financing and financial deductions to incentivize miners to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Also, vocational training and job opportunities will be offered to locals, particularly those in mining-prone regions.

AFRICOM is expected to provide security support for the project, helping to curb illegal mining activities that have been associated with violence and loss of state revenue.

“This partnership is committed to creating economic opportunities while restoring degraded lands and supporting local communities,” the statement read. “We believe this project will set a benchmark for responsible resource management in Ghana and beyond.”

The consortium also hopes the project will attract new investment into Ghana’s mining and agricultural sectors, with the broader goal of fostering sustainable development and enhancing national security.

Stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society groups, and development partners, are being urged to support the initiative in order to ensure its success.