The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to collaborate with the Ghana Chamber of Mines to strengthen the mining sector and drive national economic development.
The assurance came during a high-level courtesy call by the leadership of the Chamber aimed at enhancing partnership between the public and private sectors in the mineral value chain.
In his remarks, Mr. Buah praised the Chamber for its role in stabilizing and growing Ghana’s economy, stating that large-scale mining remains a pillar in the country’s industrial and fiscal framework.
“Our collaboration with the Ghana Chamber of Mines is very important.
“Large-scale mining is critical to the economy of Ghana, and we will continue to work together to improve it.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
In line with the government’s broader green transition agenda, Mr. Buah stressed the importance of environmental sustainability in mining. He encouraged mining companies to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and adopt best practices that minimize ecological damage.
“We must protect our environment while we mine. Responsible mining isn’t optional—it’s a necessity for our future and that of our communities.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
The Minister also announced the government’s intention to formally launch a Small-Scale Mining Cooperative in the coming weeks. This initiative, he explained, is aimed at formalizing operations in the small-scale mining sector while reducing illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
“There’s a lot that we can do together to promote Ghana and the mining industry.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
He called on large-scale operators to provide technical training, mentorship, and logistical support to small-scale miners to enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance within the broader industry.
Deepening Public-Private Sector Engagement
The meeting, attended by the Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, served as a platform to reaffirm shared objectives and explore deeper collaboration between government and industry.
Dr. Ashigbey expressed appreciation for the government’s engagement and underscored the Chamber’s commitment to advancing responsible, inclusive, and sustainable mining practices.
“We appreciate your support and welcome. The Chamber remains committed to working with the Ministry to harness the potential of mining for the sustainable development of Ghana.”
Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of Ghana Chamber of Mines
The Chamber’s leadership used the meeting to highlight key priorities including environmental responsibility, community engagement, and capacity building. They also reinforced the need for policy consistency to attract long-term investment in the mining sector.
Dr. Ashigbey also welcomed the proposal and pledged the Chamber’s support for the initiative, noting that capacity development in the ASM (Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining) sector is essential for national integration and sector-wide improvement.
“Our members understand that sustainable mining must include everyone.
“We are ready to partner in skills development and environmental stewardship across all tiers of the industry.”
Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of Ghana Chamber of Mines
He also acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts in providing a conducive regulatory environment and emphasized the need for continued policy clarity and stakeholder consultation to address evolving challenges within the mining landscape.
The meeting concluded with a mutual reaffirmation of shared goals and a pledge to pursue joint actions that foster innovation, sustainability, and economic transformation.
Both parties expressed confidence that the renewed collaboration would serve as a foundation for addressing sectoral inefficiencies, improving value retention, and ensuring the equitable distribution of mining benefits.
Ghana’s mining sector currently contributes around 12% of the country’s GDP and remains a significant source of foreign exchange earnings.
The ongoing strategic dialogue between government and the Chamber is expected to deepen investment in green mining technology, improve regulatory compliance, and amplify the sector’s impact on national development.
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