The Minerals Commission of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Australia in strengthening investor confidence and improving regulatory systems within the mining sector.
This follows a courtesy call paid by a delegation of the Commission, led by its Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Policy Planning, Mineral Titles and Local Content, Ms. Victoria Awuni, to the Australian High Commissioner in Ghana, Her Excellency Berenice Owen-Jones.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi, Ms. Awuni expressed appreciation for the Australian High Commission’s role in fostering trust and investor interest in Ghana’s mining sector.
She highlighted the critical role of the Mining Cadastre Administration System (MCAS), a technology introduced to the Minerals Commission in 2015 with Australian support.
The software, she noted, has become an indispensable tool in Ghana’s mining governance. “MCAS has significantly enhanced transparency and efficiency in the management of mineral rights,” Ms. Awuni said.
“It provides a comprehensive digital framework that manages the full lifecycle of a mining right, from application to approval, renewals, and expiration.
“Importantly, its compliance module tracks royalties, production reports, and contract terms, ensuring license holders remain fully accountable.”
Ms. Victoria Awuni, Deputy CEO in charge of Policy Planning, Mineral Titles and Local Content
Beyond technological innovation, Ms. Awuni praised Australia’s continued support in human resource development for the Commission.
She updated the High Commissioner on the number of Ghanaian mining professionals currently pursuing studies in Australia and extended gratitude for the scholarships and travel facilitation extended to staff.
“These opportunities have not only improved the technical capacity of our staff but have also strengthened institutional knowledge in modern mining practices.”
Ms. Victoria Awuni, Deputy CEO in charge of Policy Planning, Mineral Titles and Local Content
The meeting, held in Accra, underscored the longstanding collaboration between the two institutions, particularly in the areas of technological support, capacity building, and investment facilitation in Ghana’s mining industry.
Australian High Commissioner Commends Ghana’s Efforts
In her response, High Commissioner Berenice Owen-Jones lauded the Minerals Commission for the progressive reforms it is championing to make Ghana’s mining sector more attractive and competitive.
“I am impressed by the forward-looking interventions being rolled out by the Commission. “Our partnership is delivering results, and I am committed to ensuring that the relationship between my office and the Commission continues to grow for the benefit of Ghana’s mining industry.”
The High Commissioner encouraged the Commission to consider introducing more flexibility in its Minerals and Mining Procurement List, which guides local content participation in the sector.
According to her, a gradual expansion of the list would allow suppliers and service providers greater room to innovate and restructure their operations.
Commending the Minerals Commission for its ongoing stakeholder consultations on mining policy and legal reforms, Commissioner Owen-Jones described the process as a strong demonstration of inclusivity.
She urged Ghana to sustain this momentum and continue to use global mining platforms such as the Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, Australia, to market its mining potential to international investors.
“Ghana’s peaceful environment, strong governance, robust legal system, and high-quality human resources make it an ideal destination for mining investments. “Coupled with the reforms under way, these factors present a compelling case for companies looking to expand into Africa.”
The High Commissioner also encouraged more staff of the Minerals Commission to apply for the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarship Program, emphasizing that improved skills and international exposure would help Ghana navigate the evolving global mining landscape.
Deepening a Strategic Partnership
The courtesy call reflects the broader strategy of the Minerals Commission to strengthen international partnerships that support Ghana’s mining vision.
With mining contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and export revenues, the sector is regarded as a cornerstone of economic transformation.
The visit also comes at a time when Ghana is accelerating reforms to curb illegal mining, improve transparency, and maximize value from its mineral resources. By deepening relations with key partners such as Australia, the Commission is positioning itself to meet the challenges of a fast-changing global mining industry.
The discussions between Ms. Awuni and Commissioner Owen-Jones highlight a shared commitment to a mining sector that not only drives economic growth but also adheres to global standards of accountability and sustainability.
As Ghana continues to reform its mining policies and enhance regulatory frameworks, the support of partners like Australia will remain crucial.
Both sides agreed that the partnership should not only focus on regulatory systems but also on empowering local suppliers, building technical expertise, and creating opportunities for broader economic participation.
With these commitments in place, the Minerals Commission and the Australian High Commission look set to write a new chapter in Ghana’s mining journey, one anchored in technology, transparency, and inclusive growth.
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