The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association (NCSSMA) has publicly endorsed Dr. Toni Aubynn for the position of Minister for Lands and Natural Resources in the incoming government.

The group, in a statement released on Sunday, December 22, 2024, expressed its confidence in Dr. Aubynn’s exceptional expertise, leadership, and extensive experience in Ghana’s mining industry.

In their statement, signed by the association’s president, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, the NCSSMA highlighted Dr. Aubynn’s unmatched track record in mining policy, regulation, and sustainable practices.

According to the association, Dr. Aubynn’s career trajectory uniquely positions him as the ideal candidate to lead Ghana’s natural resource sector.

“Dr. Aubynn’s unparalleled expertise in mining policy, regulations, and sustainable resource management makes him the ideal candidate to oversee Ghana’s natural resources effectively,” the statement read.

The association further underscored Dr. Aubynn’s extensive experience across all facets of the mining industry. From operational management at Abosso Goldfields, Damang Mine, to corporate leadership as the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Gold Fields Ghana, and later as the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Dr. Aubynn has played pivotal roles in advancing the sector.

His tenure as CEO of the Minerals Commission also demonstrated his capability in driving regulatory reforms. Currently serving as a consultant in the mining sector, Dr. Aubynn continues to provide strategic insights into the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Champion of Small-Scale Mining

Dr. Aubynn’s contributions to the small-scale mining sector were also highlighted in the NCSSMA’s statement. The group recalled his instrumental role in resolving a conflict between AngloGold Ashanti and small-scale miners who had encroached on the Obuasi underground. His negotiation efforts resulted in a peaceful resolution and the release of 60% of AngloGold’s unused concessions for organized small-scale mining—a groundbreaking achievement for the sector.

In 2016, Dr. Aubynn collaborated with then-President John Dramani Mahama to draft game-changing reforms for the small-scale mining industry. Although these reforms were not implemented due to a change in government, the association noted that they demonstrated his commitment to improving the sector.

Respected Advocate and Leader

The NCSSMA described Dr. Aubynn as a visionary leader whose influence extends beyond Ghana. His affable personality and collaborative approach have earned him the respect and trust of both large-scale and small-scale mining stakeholders locally and internationally.

Since 2016, Dr. Aubynn has also served as a staunch advocate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), contributing to the drafting of the Party’s mining manifestos for both 2020 and 2024 and leading the NDC Campaign Team on Mining.

“During the campaign activities for election 2024, we the miners had the opportunity to listen to the NDC’s campaign manifesto policy document through the interpretation he gave us in his site campaign tour and other mining conferences. We are convinced that he is the man prepared for the job; that’s why he gave us a clearer presentation compared to what their opponents were doing.”

A Call for Strategic Leadership

The NCSSMA concluded its statement with a call on the President-Elect to appoint Dr. Aubynn as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, stating that his expertise and vision would bring transformative change to Ghana’s natural resource management.

“Dr. Aubynn’s appointment would signify the government’s commitment to competence, inclusivity, and sustainable development in Ghana’s natural resource management,” the association stated.

The endorsement comes as the incoming government prepares to form its cabinet, with expectations high for strategic appointments to key ministries such as Lands and Natural Resources.