The Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin project has embarked on a responsible gold mining initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility to protect the purity of the gold coin and ensure sanity in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector in the Ashanti Region.
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The E On 3 Group, authorised by the Bank of Ghana to mint the coin, launched an intensive media campaign on responsible gold mining in Kumasi, explaining the dangers posed by illegal mining (galamsey) to the Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin’s noble objectives.
The company intends to promote zero mercury in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector in the region and conduct land reclamation for mined-out lands. The project also includes sustained education and training programmes on illegal gold mining for chiefs, media engagements, and visits to churches and mosques to engage their leaders and congregants. Otumfuo Osei Tutu has declared 2023 as an Action Year to protect lands and water bodies from the activities of illegal gold miners.
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The Asantehene charged chiefs under his authority to scrutinise all mining documentation and monitor the activities of small-scale gold mining companies to ensure their operations do not have negative impacts on lands and water bodies.
The Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin project has partnered with several organisations, including the World Gold Council and Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), to pursue responsible gold mining initiatives in the region.