‘Invest in tomato, meat factories’ – SRAN challenges mining companies

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The Chairman of the Savannah Research and Advocacy Network (SRAN), Nyeye Yin, has questioned the commitment of mining companies operating in the Upper East Region to the area’s socio-economic development.

According to him, if these companies truly prioritised the welfare of the region—as their mission statements often suggest—they would invest in industries that directly improve livelihoods instead of limiting their focus to mineral extraction.

Speaking at a workshop organised by SRAN to highlight the work of the Mining Watch Groups (MWG), Mr. Yin wondered why companies with significant financial strength have not invested in agriculture-based ventures such as tomato processing or meat production. Such investments, he argued, would create sustainable jobs, reduce poverty and drive long-term development.

“We cannot continue to allow companies to extract our resources without contributing meaningfully to the economic transformation of our communities,” he said.

Mr. Yin noted that although mining has the potential to support economic growth, many communities continue to face poor living conditions despite decades of resource extraction in the region.

The workshop brought together representatives from mining-affected communities, civil society organisations and key stakeholders in the extractive industry. It also showcased the work of the Mining Watch Groups in Talensi, Nabdam and Bolgatanga/Sherigu, where community volunteers monitor mining activities, report abuses and work with authorities to strengthen regulatory enforcement.

SRAN reaffirmed its commitment to empowering local communities to participate in natural resource governance and urged mining companies to align their investments with the region’s development needs—particularly through support for industries that promote local economic growth.

Source: a1radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga