The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mining, Hon. George Mireku Duker, has disclosed that the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) has a strategic role to play in the actualization of the government’s objective of making Ghana a hub for refinery of mineral resources on the continent.

Addressing the staff and management, on Wednesday December 14, 2022, at a working visit to the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), he explained that his visit was anchored on two important things. The first, he stated, is the deepening of engagement with communities in the Oti Region for the economic benefits of the communities, region and country as a whole which derived from the discovery of iron ore in that part of the country.

The visit by the Deputy Minister was to engage the management and staff of the iron refinery company on their accomplishments this year and how to improve on it next year.

Following the discovery of iron ore in certain parts of the Oti Region, some chiefs have vowed not to allow mining of the resources. Hon. Duker however conceded that chiefs may have genuine concerns, but the onus lies on GIISDEC and partner agencies to engage those Chiefs and communities on the importance of the mineral resource to the development of the country.

The Deputy Minister urged them to expedite actions and processes towards the addition of value to the country’s natural resources. He explained that GIISDEC and GIADEC have responsibility to ensure that they become foremost refinery centers in the sub-region.

Mr Duker implored them to be active in the media space and make Ghana appreciate their efforts and role in the economy. He observed that whereas GIISDEC is making giant strides, not much is known about their activities.

Iron ore discovery in Oti region

The Deputy Minister subsequently urged them to constantly update the public on their works. He concluded his remarks with a firm assurance that the Ministry remains committed to the cause of GIISDEC and will offer enormous support to their corporation.

The Chief Executive Officer of GIISDEC, Mr.Kwabena Bonsu Fordwor, on his part, revealed that his outfit has designed a master plan which is yet to be launched by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He highlighted that the six out of the eight prospective blocks have been given to Ghanaian investors which goes to highlight their commitment to raising local contents.

It will be recalled that the Oti regional minister, Joshua G. Makubu, during a press engagement on Sunday, October 9, 2022, revealed that iron ore has been discovered in five districts of the Oti Region. The ore was found in Guan, Biakoye, Jasikan, Kadjebi and Krachi East districts.

Mr Makubu was hopeful the discovery of the mineral will boost Ghana’s economy and industrialization. There is already collaboration between the Ghana Integrated Iron Ore Development and the Geological Service Department for further arrangements on the discovery pending the mining of the natural resource.