Ghana’s mining communities are set to benefit from strengthened governance as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah inaugurated the new Governing Board of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) with a clear mandate: prioritize transparent, accountable, and community-focused development in mining regions.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, 7th July 2025 Mr. Kofi Buah emphasized the Fund’s pivotal role in ensuring mineral wealth directly improves lives in mining-affected areas.
“The MDF represents our nation’s covenant with mining communities – a promise that the resources extracted from their lands will meaningfully transform their quality of life,” the Minister stated.
Established under Act 912 (2016), the MDF operates with a structured disbursement framework:
- 50% to the Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands (OASL);
- 20% to the Mining Community Development Scheme (MCDS);
- 13% to the Minerals Commission.
- 8% to the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GSA);
- 4% to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
- 5% for research, training, and sustainable development initiatives; and
- 2% for administrative and operational expenses.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah also charged the Board with immediate priorities: Completing all ongoing community development projects, developing robust alternative livelihood programs, and implementing transparent fund management systems.
Yusif Sulemana, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, emphasized the need for a clear break from past mismanagement.
He urged the Board to treat their appointments as a national service and ensure funds are directed to areas that need them most.
Board Chairman, Akwasi Nsiah Awuah, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged the Board’s commitment to responsible stewardship.
The inauguration marks a renewed drive toward sustainable, inclusive development in Ghana’s mining regions, signaling the government’s commitment to ensuring that mineral revenues translate into lasting community progress.
