Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Her Excellency Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman, graced the momentous occasion, the official opening of the Ahafo North Mine in Afrisipakrom, Ahafo Region by Newmont Ghana and emphasized on the significance of gold in shaping the country’s history and economy.
The event which was also graced by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Armah Kofi Buah, among other dignitaries, marked a new chapter in Ghana’s mining industry.
“This project must mark the beginning of a new chapter in responsible mining and demonstrate what collaboration, transparency, and shared purpose can achieve.”
Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman
Newmont and the Ghana’s Economy
Newmont Ghana has long been a key player in the country’s mining sector, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth and development.
The company’s operations in the Ahafo region have not only generated substantial revenue but have also created numerous employment opportunities and supported the livelihoods of local communities.
In her address, the Vice President highlighted Ghana’s standing as Africa’s leading gold producer and the sixth-largest producer globally.
She emphasized that “gold has shaped Ghana’s history and economy,” underscoring the critical role that the mineral has played in the country’s development.
Responsible Mining and Value Addition
The Vice President also used the occasion to reiterate the government’s commitment to processing Ghana’s gold locally.
“This will enhance value addition, create jobs, and ensure that the benefits of our resources translate directly into improved living standards for our people.”
Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman
To achieve this, the government is reviewing the Minerals and Mining Policy including the rebranding of Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) into Ghana Gold Board under act 1140 to align with current sustainability goals.
The Vice President acknowledged Newmont’s support for the government’s “Big Push Agenda,” particularly through the construction of a 46-kilometer stretch of the Sunyani-Ntotronso-Akyerensua highway.
She further noted that the establishment of the Ahafo North Mine will create jobs, spur local business growth, and serve as a driver of regional transformation.
Efforts and Peaceful Dialogue
The Vice President recognized the extensive negotiations, consultations, and sacrifices that made the Ahafo North Mine project possible. She commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his leadership in mediating peaceful dialogue, as well as the Ahafo chiefs and people for their cooperation and vision.
During the event, the Vice President also seized the opportunity to paid tribute to the eight gallant men who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash while working to improve the mining sector.
She emphasized the need for continuous improvement in safety standards and responsible mining practices.
The Vice President expressed her optimism that the Ahafo North Mine project will stand as development vehicle thereby improving every sphere of the country.
“I hope that this project will stand as a model of inclusive development, where mining translates into better infrastructure, stronger communities, and greater opportunities.”
Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman
National Development Priorities
The Vice President’s remarks at the Ahafo North Mine opening ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to aligning the mining sector with Ghana’s broader development priorities.
By promoting responsible mining practices, value addition, and collaborative partnerships, the government aims to ensure that the country’s mineral wealth directly benefits its citizens and contributes to the nation’s sustainable growth.
The official opening of the Ahafo North Mine by Newmont Ghana marks a significant milestone in the country’s mining industry, reinforcing the crucial role that gold has played in shaping Ghana’s history and economy.
The Vice President’s presence and her impassioned address have set the tone for a new era of responsible, transparent, and inclusive mining that will drive the nation’s development for years to come.
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