WACAM @ 10

The Wassa Association of Communities against Mining (WACAM) has celebrated its ten years anniversary in fighting against mining in the country. Speaking at the ceremony in Accra, the Executive Director of WACAM Daniel Owusu-Koranteng said the occasion will afford the opportunity to reflect and recommend the ideals that "encouraged us to form WACAM". Outlining some activities of the association over the years he said; his outfit has engaged in various forms of campaigns with both international and local NGOs in fighting against mining in the country. At the level of advocacy WACAM had actively participated in networks such as the National Coalition on Mining in seeking mining law reforms that takes on board the concerns of the mining communities. He further stated that WACAM in collaborati active environmental journalists and assembly women at Bonso electoral area in 2003 fought against the disposal of manganese waste into river bodies by some mining company's, this is the same source of water for usage by surrounding communities. Mr.Owusu Koranteng also reiterated some of the success stories of the association such as the provision of new minerals and mining law (act 703) which establishes the compensation principles which takes into account loss of expected income depending on the nature of crops on land and their life expectancy. "It also considers compensations for land". He thanked all who in diverse way contributed to the success story of WACAM.The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Ghana, Most Rev.Dr.Robert Aboagye-Mensah appealed to Ghanaians to put national interest above personal and political consideration at all times. "I pray for continuous effective advocate of the poor and protectors of the environment with strong support from all religious and other faith based organizations". A country ready for oil exploration should consider its purpose and not attach it to politics but allow real Ghanaians with knowledge into the oil industry to handle it to make it profitable to the country not a resource curse. He advised mining companies and mining communities to have excellent communication skills any time problems erupt and ensure peace all the time. Most Rev.Dr.Aboagye-Mensah commended WACAM for their good works and for surviving for the past 10 years.