The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to cementing the country’s status as the mining hub of Africa.
Speaking at the Mining and Power Conference and Exhibition in Accra, the minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Abu Jinapor, highlighted the sector’s significant contribution to the national economy, accounting for 47% of total export receipts in 2022.
Ghana is now the leading producer of gold in Africa, hosting the world’s largest raisebore hole and serving as the center of mine support services in the West African Region, he mentioned.
The Minster attributed the achievements in the sector to policies implemented by President Akufo-Addo’s administration which aimed at consolidating Ghana’s position as a leader in the mining industry.
He acknowledged the challenges that come with this feat, including balancing resource extraction with environmental protection, community development, and social responsibility.
To address these challenges,the said the government is committed to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices.He assured that government will continue to implement policies and programmes designed to create an enabling environment to drive sustainable investment in responsible mining and power generation. We are investing in infrastructure, to decentralise the operations of the Minerals Commission, the regulator of the sector, to make it more efficient.
The President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Michael Akafia observed that the theme of this year’s conference, “The Mining and Power Hub; Driving Sustainable Investment Opportunities in West Africa”, underscores the importance of collaborating and creating synergies in the mining and energy sectors of West Africa to drive sustainable development for its people.
He added that these two critical and interdependent sectors need to adopt responsible and innovative practices to enhance productivity, promote environmental stewardship, social responsibility and community development.
We have no choice but to embrace sustainable development principles as we navigate the complexities of our industry, ensuring that our operations benefit not only our shareholders, but the broader society and the environment in which we operate,” he stressed.
The conference, themed “The Mining and Power Hub: Driving Sustainable Investment Opportunities in West Africa,” brought together policymakers, industry players, and experts to dialogue, share knowledge, build capacity, and form partnerships.
This event is crucial for advancing sustainable development goals in the mining sector.With three new large-scale mines under construction and numerous Ghanaians working in the industry worldwide, Ghana is poised to maintain its position as the mining hub of Africa.
The 3-day conference June 5-7 will provide opportunity for the stakeholders to delve into various topical matters, including navigating regulatory frameworks/challenges, innovation, technology and AI, investment opportunities as well as current trends in ESG and sustainability.
