The Ghana Chamber of Mines has officially announced the retirement of Dr. Sulemanu Koney, who has served as the Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) since 2014.
This marks the end of an illustrious tenure spanning over two decades, during which Dr. Koney pioneered significant reforms and played a critical role in strengthening Ghana’s mining industry.
Speaking on the retirement, the President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, paid glowing tribute to Dr. Koney, emphasizing the indelible legacy he leaves behind.
“Dr. Koney’s remarkable service and commitment to the Chamber and the mining industry have been truly inspiring.
“His leadership has left an indelible mark on the industry, and we are immensely grateful for his contributions.”
Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines
Mr. Akafia further acknowledged Dr. Koney’s strategic foresight in navigating the sector through turbulent global markets, regulatory shifts, and increasing environmental expectations.
Under Dr. Koney’s watch, the Chamber became more vocal in policy debates and collaborated closely with both public and private sector actors to ensure mining remained a key growth driver.
“On behalf of the Executive Committee, Council, and the entire Chamber, I extend our profound gratitude to Dr. Sulemanu Koney for his years of meritorious service.
“His impact has been extraordinary, and we wish him the best in his future endeavours.”
Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines
Dr. Koney’s journey with the Chamber began in 2000, when he was appointed as the Director of Analysis, Research, and Finance.
His analytical prowess and deep industry knowledge quickly established him as a trusted thought leader in mining policy and economics.
Rising through the ranks, he became CEO in 2014 and has since been a central figure in reshaping the Chamber’s role in the national development agenda.
Under his stewardship, the Chamber pursued proactive engagement with government and industry stakeholders, championed responsible mining practices, and advocated for fiscal reforms and local content development.
His leadership ensured that the mining sector continued to contribute significantly to Ghana’s economy while embracing sustainability and community development.
Dr. Koney was instrumental in pushing for a mining framework that balanced economic viability with environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Chamber of Mines Interim Leadership
As the Chamber prepares to appoint a new CEO, Mr. Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, the current Director of External Relations and Communications, has been named Acting CEO.
Mr. Nantogmah brings with him over 26 years of experience in the mining sector, with a background in communications, stakeholder engagement, environmental management, and government relations.
Mr. Akafia expressed full confidence in the interim leadership, describing Mr. Nantogmah as a seasoned professional well-positioned to lead during this transition.
“We express our sincere appreciation to Ahmed for his long-standing service to the Chamber and for accepting this leadership role at the Secretariat.
“His wealth of experience and profound industry knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the mining industry’s role as a vital pillar of Ghana’s economy.”
Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines
The Ghana Chamber of Mines reiterated its commitment to responsible mining, sustainable development, and industry growth under the stewardship of its current and future leadership.
The retirement of Dr. Koney provides an opportunity for reflection and strategic recalibration, but also affirms the Chamber’s resolve to maintain momentum in transforming the mining industry.
As Ghana continues to position its mining sector for increased investment, value addition, and sustainability, the role of industry leadership becomes even more pivotal.
Dr. Koney’s legacy, defined by foresight, dialogue, and integrity, will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for his successors.
The Chamber concluded its announcement by reaffirming its pledge to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure the mining sector remains not only a bedrock of Ghana’s economy but also a model for best practices on the African continent.
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