Regional News of Friday, 16 May 2014

Source: GNA

Stakeholders dialogue on conflict in mining

IBIS Ghana on Thursday opened a two-day stakeholders’ meeting in Tamale aimed at sharing ideas to address the conflicts associated with mining in the Gbane community of the Upper East Region.

The Star-Ghana sponsored programme created the opportunity for participants and some community members in the mining area to voice out their concerns towards the ongoing mining in Gbane, in the Talensi District.

The meeting was also to promote dialogue and a peaceful resolution of disputes among key leaders and stakeholders in mining at Gbane.

The programme was on the theme: “Promoting peaceful co-existence in Gbane for responsible mining and sustainable development.”

Mr. Chals Wontewe, the Country Director of IBIS, stressed the need for the District Assembly to work tirelessly in promoting peace and development in the Gbane community.

He urged members of the community to join hands and seek the interest of the area and to take advantage of the jobs created by the mining companies in the District.

Mr Emmanuel Abeliwine, Programme Director of IBIS, said there was the need to improve the living conditions of the poor and vulnerable in the community to reduce conflicts.

The meeting engaged Chiefs from Gbane, personnel from the Minerals Commission, Security personnel, Assemblymen, Small scale mining companies and other stakeholders.