It remains unclear if organized labor was swayed by President Akufo-Addo during the critical meeting held on October 3, 2024, to delay their planned nationwide strike against the escalating issue of illegal mining.

While discussions unfolded, the Minerals Commission proceeded to grant multiple new mining licenses to small-scale mining enterprises in a seemingly cavalier manner.

On the very day of the meeting, the Commission astonishingly issued a total of eleven (11) fresh licenses to various small-scale mining companies as recorded in the Ghana Minerals Repository.

Among the recipients were Richland Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T243/2024), Confidence Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T245/2024), Adjoebia Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T235/2024), Gradey Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T239/2024), Tekyi Miresu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T242/2024), and Precious Awudu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T241/2024). Additionally, licenses were granted to Internal Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T238/2024), Osagyefo Aba Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T237/2024), and Adikanfo Titifou Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T244/2024).

The Minerals Commission also allocated licenses to Adjeibia Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T236/2024) and Teky Miresu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T240/2024).

According to records on the Ghana Mining Repository, the Minerals Commission has issued a staggering total of 2,251 licenses, including one with a projected commencement date of January 19, 2025, to New Mont Golden Ridge Limited.

In the preceding meeting with organized labor, President Akufo-Addo implored for the postponement of the impending nationwide strike against ‘galamsey’ on October 10, 2024, on the premise that he could address the galamsey crisis given more time, despite having scant months left in office.

The environmental degradation caused by illegal mining looms, with no feasible resolution achievable before the president’s term ends.

As the impending election draws near in December, Ghanaians are poised to elect a new leader who will inherit the challenges of galamsey left unaddressed by the current administration.

President Akufo-Addo’s failure to effectively combat illegal mining, evident in the widespread destruction caused under his tenure, underscores the urgent need for decisive action to protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.

Despite the establishment of various committees and task forces to combat galamsey during his term, the pervasive influence of government officials and their associates implicated in the illegal mining industry continues to impede progress.

Allegations linking figures such as President Akufo-Addo’s hometown chief, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori-Panin, to illicit mining activities further exacerbate the government’s shortcomings in curtailing the destructive impacts of galamsey.

The renowned South African songstress, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, has joined the chorus decrying the pervasive illegal mining activities that have plagued Ghana.

Acknowledging the intricate nature of the issue, she has implored the government to take resolute action in tackling the underlying causes of illegal mining.

Addressing President Nana Akufo-Addo, she urged him to heed the voices of the youth and implement practical measures to foster a more inclusive and thriving Ghana.

“We cannot overlook the plight of young individuals who engage in illegal mining due to lack of employment opportunities.

It is their desperation to provide for themselves and their families that drives them into this illicit activity—I do not endorse it,” she remarked.

The esteemed songstress urged President Akufo-Addo to act conscientiously for the well-being of Ghanaians. “Mr. President, the youth are advocating for solutions. The time has come to move beyond mere words and take tangible steps.

We urge you to translate your vision into actions so that the nation’s mineral wealth benefits all, ensuring access to clean water for everyone. As we speak of governance by the people, let their voices guide your decisions.”

Chaka Chaka lamented the extensive and detrimental consequences of illegal mining on the younger generation, stressing that the issue “casts a dark shadow everywhere, including South Africa.

” She urged the government to undertake adequate measures to combat the scourge and restore Ghana’s depleted forest cover and ravaged lands.

The celebrated singer, currently in Ghana for the African Legends Night, disclosed plans to appeal to President Akufo-Addo during an upcoming Global Citizen meeting in Ivory Coast to prioritize the fight against galamsey.

“We have a critical opportunity to address this pressing issue at the upcoming Global Citizen assembly in Ivory Coast. President Akufo-Addo will be present, and I will personally convey the urgency of curbing illegal mining to prevent further suffering among the youth.”

Expressing deep-seated concern over the adverse effects of galamsey on the youth, Chaka Chaka advocated for a transformation in the status quo.

The South African music icon is slated as one of the headline artists for this year’s African Legends Night held at the Grand Arena in Accra on Saturday, October 5.

Joining a stellar lineup featuring Okyeame Kwame, George Jahraa, and Adane Best, she underscored the spirit of unity among performers.

“I do not consider myself the main act—I view Okyeame Kwame, George Jahraa, and Adane Best as my fellow artists. This is a collaborative effort.

Whenever I perform, I aim to foster a sense of belonging within the community. Let me say to them, we are all part of one people.”

Chaka Chaka, having pledged to mesmerize fans with an exceptional performance, extended gratitude to the event organizers, Global Media Alliance, for curating such a grand show.

Meanwhile, Ghanaian rapper, M.anifest, voiced dismay over the police’s refusal to grant bail to the Democracy Hub protesters detained on September 22, 2024.

In a social media post, M.anifest decried the “punitive actions” demonstrated by the police and criticized some locals for endorsing such police behavior.

MultiChoice Ghana fielded mixed team of twenty staff 20 for the annual Breast Cancer Fundraising Run, organized by the charity group Run For A Cure, held last weekend in Accra. The event, aimed at raising awareness and funds for breast cancer treatment and early detection, drew widespread participation from individuals, corporate entities, and health advocates. MultiChoice Ghana is proud to be among the organizations supporting this vital cause.

The Breast Cancer Fundraising Run is a signature event organized by Run For A Cure in partnership with sponsorship with a host of organizations across the country. The funds generated from the run will directly support breast cancer patients, including providing access to free screening, treatment, and education for women in underserved communities. MultiChoice Ghana’s involvement in this initiative underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.

Representing MultiChoice Ghana, Human Resources Manager Matilda Asare emphasized the importance of joining the fight against breast cancer. “Breast cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges affecting women in Ghana and globally. At MultiChoice Ghana, we believe in taking an active role in supporting initiatives like Run For A Cure that provide crucial support to women battling this disease. Our staff’s participation is a reflection of our collective commitment to promoting health and well-being in the communities we serve.”

Throughout the day, MultiChoice Ghana team members participated in the 5km and 10km races alongside thousands of runners, all united by a common purpose: to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer prevention, treatment, and research. Theodora Nortey, Growth Manager, MultiChoice Ghana won the silver medal in the Youth Division (25-35yrs) at the end of the race. Explaining her motivation to participate in this event she added “I believe in the cause and every step I took represents the work being done by campaigners to create more awareness for this cancer at home and the world over”.

Proceeds from the event will be channeled into Run For A Cure’s ongoing programs, which focus on increasing breast cancer awareness, facilitating early detection, and providing financial aid for treatment, particularly in underserved areas of Ghana.

MultiChoice Ghana continues to be a proactive force in contributing to causes that positively impact the health and lives of Ghanaians. This latest participation in the Run For A Cure initiative is part of the company’s broader CSR strategy, which supports health, education, and community development.