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Recent attempts by most developing countries in Africa (with
exception of few countries like Botswana and South Africa) to
harness the opportunity presented by the extraction industry has
been hindered by lack of adequate planning due to most countries
focusing most of their attention on Crude Oil.
Regrettably revenues generated from most of the mineral
extraction ventures in developing countries do not always
translate or benefit the citizens; since over 70% of the people
are still living below the poverty level. To further complicate
issues, most of the existing exploration projects have been
embarked upon without putting adequate provisions in place to
protect the environment. Most times the consent of all involved
are not sought after, especially that of the people of the rural
communities; many of such communities are denied the opportunity
of taking an active part in the decision making process and
implementation of mining schemes that will have a direct impact
on their lives, livelihood and as a result, their human rights
are constantly being violated.
A well-integrated extractive sector that takes into account the
importance of both the Liquid Hydro Carbon and solid mineral
Industry will play a very important role in the economy of
developing countries.
The Extractive Mineral industry should be used to promote Social
Investment and developed to serve the local industries. The
Industry should serve as a catalyst for the developing countries
to achieve their industrialisation dream. However, because the
nature of extraction processes creates a potential negative
impact on the environment both during the extraction operations
and for years after the exploration site is closed, adequate
steps must be taken to moderate the negative effects of it
operations. Safety has long been a concern as well, though
modern practices have improved safety in mines significantly.
We are promoting a well-integrated Extractive Industry; we
intend to eliminate the deprivations often associated with
mining projects, and turn mining to a tool to alleviate the
rural people out of poverty.
We operate a model that exploits the present lucrative market
for the unutilized minerals and plough the revenue and resources
generated back into the community to enhance other developmental
ventures. This is as opposed the current common operating
business model that either exploits the mineral resources of the
community, the people of the community or both. |
