Ghana’s recent policy reforms are enhancing its mining industry, focusing on local content, infrastructure modernization, and investment. Key initiatives include a raw bauxite export ban, the Green Minerals Policy, and local content regulations, all aimed at boosting production and attracting global investment. The Mining in Motion conference will showcase these developments, highlighting opportunities and collaborations in the sector.
Ghana has embarked on significant policy reforms over the past decade to enhance its mining industry, focusing on local content development and modernization of infrastructure and equipment. These reforms have spurred various projects in established sectors such as gold, bauxite, manganese, and diamonds, while also fostering growth in emerging areas including lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements.
The forthcoming Mining in Motion (MIM) conference in Accra aims to bring together policymakers, stakeholders, and global partners to discuss the positive impacts of these policy reforms on Ghana’s mineral market. The event will feature speakers who will update attendees on major projects and investment opportunities, alongside potential collaborations within the industry.
Ghana has announced a proposed law to ban the export of raw bauxite effective June 2024. Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Samuel Abu Jinapor emphasized that this legislation aims to monetize the country’s substantial bauxite reserves, estimated at 900 million tons. The ban intends to promote value addition, stimulate job creation, enhance infrastructure development, and generate higher revenue through the export of processed bauxite products.
In August 2023, Ghana implemented the Green Minerals Policy to streamline entry for critical mineral companies and foster local development. This policy aims to facilitate exploration and production projects by addressing fiscal barriers, exemplified by Atlantic Lithium Limited receiving the necessary environmental permit for its Ewoyaa Lithium Project, with production expected to commence in 2026.
The Local Content and Participation Regulation, enacted in 2020, mandates the utilization of Ghanaian expertise and resources in the mining sector. This has attracted increased foreign investment, enabling quicker project initiation and ensuring access to skilled labor. Notable developments include Electrochem Ghana Limited expanding its workforce by 3,000 to enhance salt production and significant investments from both Zijin Mining Group and Asante Gold Corporation to acquire stakes in local operations.
Modernization of mining infrastructure is critical within the reforms. The Equipment Tracking Regulations of 2020 have improved operational efficiencies, thereby supporting sustainable mining practices. This has led to increased production throughout the mining chain, as evidenced by the $1.02 billion generated by the Minerals Income Investment Fund from gold monetization in 2024 and Goldstone Resources’ reported production increase of 34% at the Homase Mine.
The Mining in Motion 2025 Summit provides an opportunity for stakeholders to stay updated on industry advancements and network with leaders. Interested individuals can register at www.MininginMotionSummit.com for participation or sponsorship inquiries, to engage in key discussions affecting Ghana’s mining and artisanal small-scale mining sectors.
The Ashanti Green Initiative is committed to environmental restoration and sustainable community development in Ghana. Led by Nana Kwaku Duah, the initiative undertakes various projects to rehabilitate degraded lands and promote responsible resource management while aiming to combat climate change and empower local communities through education and economic programs.
Energy Capital & Power serves as an investment platform aimed at uniting stakeholders in Africa’s energy and mining sectors, facilitating collaboration and investment through events and reports.
In summary, Ghana’s policy reforms are catalyzing significant growth and modernization within its mining industry. Legislative measures such as the raw bauxite export ban and the Green Minerals Policy are set to enhance value addition and attract investment. Furthermore, the Local Content Regulation is ensuring the integration of local resources and expertise, while equipment tracking regulations are modernizing operations for sustainability. The upcoming Mining in Motion conference will be instrumental in discussing these advancements and creating networks within the mining sector.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
