The workshop was to ensure that all stakeholders knew their responsibilities and understand the operations of minerals extraction.   It drew participants from mining companies, Sustainable Development Committees (SDCs), farmers, the Birim North District Assembly and individuals from the Birim North District.

Mr Joshua Quaye-Sowah, a Senior Principal Inspector of Mines, Minerals Commission, said before compensations were calculated, the parties must consider the number of years the mining activities would last to ensure an accurate compensation for all affected persons.

Mr Felix Addo-OKyireh, the Eastern Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), called for more of such workshops to help enlighten community members on relevant issues and help address their concerns.

He called on the Government, Minerals Commission, EPA and all other relevant stakeholders to find ways of addressing issues that affect the livelihood of persons living in mining communities.     Nana Dr Boni Abankro V, the Chief of Akyem Adausena, called on government to involve land owners when awarding concessions to mining companies.

He said it was time mining companies thought about the sustainability of affected land owners and ensure that some form of economic empowerment was provided to support their livelihoods.