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In a groundbreaking commitment, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has vowed to deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the battle against illegal mining activities if elected president in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
Speaking as the guest of honor at the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-scale Mining held at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, Mahama outlined his visionary approach to revolutionize the mining sector. His pledge goes beyond rhetoric; it represents a tangible step toward environmental conservation and sustainable mining practices.
AI for Responsible Mining
Mahama’s proposed AI-driven strategy aims to address critical issues within the small-scale mining sector:
- Locating and Tracking Operations:
- AI algorithms will be harnessed to precisely identify small-scale mining and galamsey operations across the nation.
- Real-time tracking of excavators will enhance transparency and accountability.
- Geofencing concessions will enable efficient monitoring and enforcement.
- Environmental Protection:
- By curbing illegal mining, Mahama’s government seeks to mitigate the environmental devastation caused by unregulated activities.
- AI will play a pivotal role in identifying high-risk areas and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
- Mining Equipment Pool:
- A special revolving fund will be established in collaboration with the private sector.
- Each district with significant gold mining activity will benefit from this fund.
- The fund aims to provide capital and create a pool of mining equipment, ensuring accessible resources for miners.
The Ghana Mining Excellence Centre (GMEC)
Mahama’s vision extends beyond immediate solutions. He recently announced the launch of the Ghana Mining Excellence Centre (GMEC), a transformative initiative coordinated by UENR and the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT). Here’s what the GMEC aims to achieve:
- Research and Innovation:
- The GMEC will collaborate with scientists from universities worldwide.
- Joint research projects will focus on green growth, sustainable practices, and technological advancements within Ghana’s mining industry.
- Capacity Building:
- The center will offer training programs for miners, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and best practices.
- Workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions will empower stakeholders.
- Policy Advocacy:
- Mahama’s government will work closely with the GMEC to advocate for policies that promote responsible mining.
- The center will engage policymakers, industry experts, and local communities to shape a sustainable mining framework.
Leadership Structure and Commitment
Mahama’s commitment to sustainable mining is unwavering. As the former president, he understands the challenges faced by mining communities and the urgent need for change. The GMEC, with its international collaboration, will drive innovation, foster partnerships, and propel Ghana toward a greener and more prosperous mining future.
In Mahama’s words, “Our minerals are a national asset, and their exploitation must benefit all Ghanaians. With AI and the Ghana Mining Excellence Centre, we can achieve this vision.”
