George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has called on gold buyers to refrain from purchasing gold on behalf of foreign nationals who engage in smuggling without paying legitimate taxes to the government. During a meeting with the Gold Buyers Association of Tarkwa, Hon Duker emphasized the government’s commitment to cracking down on foreign nationals involved in these illicit activities.
Hon Duker highlighted that the Minerals and Mining Act 703 permits only Ghanaians to participate in small-scale mining activities. However, the sale of gold in the country is often conducted by Ghanaians on behalf of foreign nationals, depriving the government of legitimate taxes.
The Deputy Minister emphasized, “You should not condone and connive with foreign nations to buy gold unlawfully.”
To address the issue, the government plans to enhance individuals’ capacities to obtain the necessary licenses for independent gold buying. The establishment of the Precious Mineral Marketing Company (PMMC) in Tarkwa he said is seen as a step to build capacity in the gold-buying business.
Expressing concern about the use of mercury in gold processing by small-scale miners in Tarkwa, Hon Duker warned of potential severe health consequences for the next generation. He announced the development of technology that could smelt gold without the use of mercury.
Hon Duker stated that similar meetings will be held in all mining regions to address these issues for the benefit of all Ghanaians. The Chairman of the Tarkwa Gold Buyers Association, Alhaji Sulemanu Dauda, thanked the deputy minister for the education and assured that association members would comply with the directives to ensure the smooth operation of their business.
Source: myinfotoday.com
