Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei Ag. Administrator, Minerals Development FundThe Minerals Development Fund (MDF) has expressed deep concern over the tragic collapse of an illegal mining pit in Mpasatia, Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of five individuals.
In a statement signed by the Acting Administrator, Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, the MDF extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected by the devastating incident.
She noted, “This incident is yet another painful reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to pose significant risks to human lives, communities, and the environment.”
She emphasized that the MDF remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at eliminating illegal mining and promoting responsible, sustainable mining practices in Ghana.
The MDF assured the public that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, security agencies, and local authorities, it would intensify efforts to dismantle unlawful mining operations.
The Fund urged individuals and groups engaged in illegal mining to abandon such practices and instead participate in government-backed programs that offer safer and more sustainable economic opportunities.
She highlighted the MDF’s ongoing partnerships with local leaders, civil society organizations, and non-governmental organizations to provide alternative livelihood opportunities.
As part of its mandate, the MDF pledged to continue channeling resources toward the development of mining communities, ensuring that all mining activities are conducted in a regulated and environmentally sustainable manner.
Read the Full Statement Below:
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, 2nd April 2025
MINERALS DEVELOPMENT FUND EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER ILLEGAL MINING PIT COLLAPSE AT MPASATIA
The Minerals Development Fund (MDF) has received with deep concern reports of a tragic incident at Mpasatia in the Ashanti Region, where a mining pit collapsed at an illegal mining site, resulting in the unfortunate loss of five (5) lives. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this devastating event.
This incident is yet another painful reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to pose significant risks to human lives, communities, and the environment. The Minerals Development Fund (MDF), in collaboration with relevant government agencies and stakeholders, remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at eliminating illegal mining activities and promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices in Ghana.
We wish to assure the general public that the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), working in partnership with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, security agencies, and local authorities will intensify measures to dismantle unlawful mining activities and ensure compliance with safety standards. And in partnership with local leaders, civil society organizations, and Non-Governmental Organizations, Minerals Development Fund (MDF) will expand alternative livelihood initiatives to reduce dependence on illegal mining, focusing on vocational training, sustainable agriculture, Poultry and entrepreneurship opportunities.
We will also continue to provide the necessary resources to enhance the development of mining communities and ensure that mining activities are conducted in a safe, regulated, and environmentally sustainable manner.
We urge all individuals and groups involved in illegal mining to desist from such activities and take advantage of government-sanctioned programs aimed at providing alternative livelihood opportunities. The MDF remains committed to ensuring that the mineral wealth of Ghana is harnessed responsibly for the benefit of all.
Once again, we express our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and call for collective action to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future.
SIGNED
Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei
Ag. Administrator, Minerals Development Fund
