Yele-Tongo (U/E), Nov. 5, GNA - The Ministry of Lands, Forestry and Mines on Wednesday granted the Talensi-Nabdam Small-Scale Miners Association a loan of 2.23 billion cedis to procure the necessary equipment needed for their operations in the area.

The loan is a revolving fund made available by government to help small-scale miners in the mining industry in the country. Madam Esther Obeng Dapaah, Minister for Lands, Forestry and Mines said this during the inauguration of the Talensi-Nabdam District Small-Scale Mining Committee at Yele-Tongo, Upper East Region.

She pointed out that government recognised the contribution small-scale mining companies were making to the development of the country and said the loan scheme was aimed at increasing the production of gold and diamond. She appealed to the Association to pay back the loans as soon as possible to enable others benefit. Madam Dapaah also said that the inauguration of the Talensi-Nabdam District Small-Scale Mining Committee was the first of its kind since Act 703 of the country's mineral and mining laws was passed. Mr. Sebastian Bisnab, District Chief Executive for the Talensi-Nabdam district commended government in its efforts to boost small-scale mining companies in the country.

He urged the beneficiaries to put away their differences and work together to enhance their livelihood. Mr Bisnab warned that his outfit would not countenance anybody or group of people who want to thwart the efforts of the assembly in its efforts to develop the area. 05 Nov. 07