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Minerals Commission Chief Unveils Reforms to Boost Ghanaian Ownership
Minerals Commission Chief Unveils Reforms to Boost Ghanaian Ownership
Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Over 300 licences revoked as new measures target greater local control and equity in mining industry.
Ghana’s Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Tandoh, has announced sweeping reforms aimed at increasing Ghanaian ownership and control in the country’s mining sector, saying employment alone is no longer enough.
Speaking at the maiden Mining Local Content Summit in Takoradi, Mr Tandoh said the changes were designed to correct what he described as decades of imbalance in the ownership of the nation’s mineral resources.
“Employment is not the same as ownership. Labour is not the same as control,” he told participants. “Our people are working in the mines, agreed, but do they own the mines?”
The two-day summit, attended by President John Dramani Mahama and other senior government officials, focused on strengthening local content and indigenisation in the mining industry.
Licences revoked.
Among the measures announced is the revocation of more than 300 small-scale mining licences acquired through irregular means.
Mr Tandoh said District Mining Committees would now play a mandatory role in reviewing and recommending all small-scale licence applications before final approval, in an effort to tighten oversight and improve accountability.
He also confirmed that the Minerals and Mining Act (Act 703) and the 2014 Minerals and Mining Policy have been comprehensively reviewed. New legislative instruments have been introduced to close legal loopholes.
Legislative Instrument 2462, which previously permitted mining in forest reserves, has been revoked.
New Licensing Legime.
As part of the reforms, a new medium-scale mining licence category has been introduced to bridge the gap between small- and large-scale operations and create more opportunities for Ghanaian operators.
Mr Tandoh also announced the phasing out of development agreements, citing what he described as systemic abuse. A new, more flexible royalty regime is expected to allow Ghana to capture greater value during periods of rising gold prices.
Local content provisions, he said, will now be embedded in every mining agreement, procurement decision and employment policy.
Crackdown on ‘Fronting’.
A key focus of the reforms is the elimination of “fronting” – an illegal practice in which foreign entities use Ghanaian nominees to acquire mineral rights.
Mr Tandoh linked the practice to the growth of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and warned those involved to desist.
“To our Ghanaian brothers and sisters who lend their names to such arrangements: open your eyes,” he said. “You are not empowering yourself; you are enabling the disempowerment of your own people.”
He stressed that the reforms were not intended to punish investors but to ensure that Ghanaians benefit equitably from the country’s mineral wealth.
Digital Transformation.
The Minerals Commission is also embarking on a digital transformation drive to improve transparency and efficiency in the regulation of the mining sector, Mr Tandoh said.
He pledged that the Commission would enforce the law “without fear or favour” while working with investors who see Ghana as “a partner in progress”.
Officials say the reforms mark a significant shift in policy, aimed at strengthening indigenous participation and ensuring that mining revenues contribute to sustainable national development.
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President Mahama Endorses Local Content Reforms to Empower Businesses in the Mining Industry.
President Mahama Endorses Local Content Reforms to Empower Businesses in the Mining Industry
Takoradi, Western Region, February 18, 2026
A set of reforms designed to increase Ghanaian participation and ownership in the mining sector has been unveiled. The landmark announcement was made by Mr. Isaac Tandoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, at the maiden Mining Local Content Summit held at Planter’s Lodge in Takoradi. The two-day event is being held under the theme, “Strengthening Local Content and Indigenization: Building a Resilient Mining Sector in Ghana.”
His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic, Guest of Honour for the event, delivered the keynote address, rallying support for the national “reset” agenda and championing the empowerment of local companies to secure commanding heights in the economy, particularly within the mining industry. President Mahama acknowledged the diligent efforts of the sector minister and commended the Board of the Minerals Commission, led by Ambassador William Ntow Boahene, for organising what he described as a transformative summit set to steer indigenous businesses towards sustainable economic growth. He outlined the government’s clear vision to deepen localisation and drive sustained national development. Following his address, the President formally opened the summit and toured the exhibition booths, engaging with mining support service providers and stakeholders showcasing their goods and services.
Reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s mineral wealth directly benefits her citizens, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), praised the Reset Agenda for its focus on economic sovereignty and the equitable distribution of mineral resources. He stressed that the nation’s natural endowments must be leveraged to fuel national development, funding critical investments in schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and industry.
While acknowledging the mining sector’s significant contribution to Ghana’s economy, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted persistent gaps in local participation. He noted that although mining accounts for approximately 43% of merchandise exports, Ghanaian businesses capture less than 40% of procurement spending, with over 70% of high-value services still dominated by foreign suppliers. To bridge this gap, he emphasised the necessity of strategic partnerships, technology transfer, and robust capacity building to empower Ghanaian enterprises. He issued a strong warning against the practice of “fronting” which he characterised as a direct theft of national opportunity.
The Minister outlined several ongoing measures, including the Minerals Commission’s new Local Content and Procurement Policy Framework and the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to catalyse downstream industrialisation. He urged stakeholders to envision a future where Ghana refines its own gold, develops local lithium-based industries, and equips its young engineers with the requisite tools to innovate. He concluded with a clarion call for a collective commitment to building an integrated, inclusive, and indigenised mining sector that secures Ghana’s long-term prosperity, issuing a final admonition: “Do not sell your birthright for crumbs when you can own the bakery.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, CEO of the Minerals Commission, emphasised that the reforms are designed to correct decades of imbalance in the ownership and control of the country’s mineral resources. “Employment is not the same as ownership. Labour is not the same as control. Our people are working in the mines, agreed, but do they own the mines?” Mr. Tandoh posited, underscoring the urgent need for Ghanaians to transition from labour participation to true equity and ownership.
The comprehensive reforms announced include:
• Revocation of Fraudulent Licenses: Over 300 small-scale mining licenses acquired through irregular means have been revoked.
• Operationalisation of District Mining Committees: These committees will now play a mandatory role in reviewing and recommending all small-scale licenses prior to approval.
• Overhaul of Mining Legislation: The Minerals and Mining Act (Act 703) and the Minerals and Mining Policy 2014 have been comprehensively reviewed, with new Legislative Instruments introduced to close legal loopholes.
• Ban on Mining in Forest Reserves: Legislative Instrument 2462, which previously permitted mining in forest reserves, has been revoked.
• Introduction of Medium-Scale Licensing: A new licensing category has been created to bridge the gap between small-scale and large-scale mining, expanding opportunities for Ghanaian miners.
• Reform of Stability and Development Agreements: Development agreements are being phased out due to systemic abuse, while a new, dynamic royalty regime will ensure Ghana captures greater value during periods of rising gold prices.
• Strengthened Local Content Rules: Local content provisions will now be strategically embedded into every mining agreement, procurement decision, and employment policy.
Mr. Tandoh stressed that these reforms are not intended to punish investors but to guarantee that Ghanaians share equitably in the benefits derived from their resources. He pledged the Commission’s readiness to enforce the laws “without fear or favour” and to partner with investors who view Ghana as “a partner in progress” rather than merely a destination for resource extraction. He also highlighted the Commission’s commitment to supporting Ghanaian entrepreneurs, traditional leaders, and local communities to ensure mining delivers tangible benefits while diligently addressing environmental and social costs.
A central pillar of the reform agenda is the aggressive elimination of “fronting” the illegal practice where foreign entities use Ghanaian nominees to secure mineral rights. Mr. Tandoh explicitly linked this practice to the surge in illegal mining (galamsey) and issued a stern warning to those complicit in it. “To our Ghanaian brothers and sisters who lend their names to such arrangements: open your eyes,” he cautioned. “You are not empowering yourself; you are enabling the disempowerment of your own people”.
In closing, Mr. Tandoh announced that the Minerals Commission is embarking on a comprehensive digital transformation drive, signaling a new era of efficiency and transparency in the regulation of Ghana’s mining sector.
The maiden Mining Local Content Summit marks a pivotal turning point for Ghana’s mining industry, with these bold reforms squarely aimed at reclaiming ownership, bolstering local participation, and ensuring the nation’s mineral wealth translates into sustainable and inclusive national development.
Ghana Asserts Dominance as Africa’s Premier Mining Hub at Mining Indaba 2026
Ghana Day 2026: Ghana Asserts Dominance as Africa’s Premier Mining Hub at Mining Indaba
Cape Town, South Africa – Mr. Isaac Tandoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, delivered an inspiring address at this year’s Investing in African Mining Indaba Country Showcase. The event, dubbed “Ghana Day” was held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Victoria Falls Stage 2 of the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The platform served to articulate a forward-looking vision for the nation’s extractive sector.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), reinforced the government’s resolve to sustain an enabling environment that balances investor competitiveness with national development imperatives. In his address, the Minister reaffirmed that regulatory predictability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement remain the non-negotiable pillars of Ghana’s mining governance framework. Hon. Buah stated that the Ministry is aligning licensing, fiscal, and local content regimes to ensure that mining becomes a genuine engine of inclusive growth.
Far more than a ceremonial showcase, Ghana Day functioned as a deliberate strategic overture. The Ghanaian delegation engaged in targeted dialogues with sovereign wealth funds, multinational exploration companies, and development finance institutions. They advanced a cohesive narrative framing Ghana as a low-risk, high-opportunity gateway to West African resource development, positioning the nation as Africa’s premier mining hub.
Mr. Tandoh’s presentation focused on the Commission’s regulatory mandate, data transparency, and institutional credibility. The CEO positioned Ghana not merely as a participant in Africa’s mining story, but as a standard-bearer.
Also present at the ceremony was a cross-section of the Commission’s Board led by the Board Chairman, Ambassador William Ntow Boahene (Esq.), whose presence underscored the unified strategic leadership governing the sector.
Speaking before a high-level audience of global investors, sovereign envoys, and industry executives, Mr. Tandoh underscored the Commission’s ongoing reforms aimed at consolidating Ghana’s reputation. Central to his message was the Commission’s unyielding commitment to transparency and operational efficiency, particularly through the modernization of the country’s mineral rights cadastre system and the significant expansion of public access to high-quality geological data. He emphasized that a secured mineral title, backed by verifiable data and enforced by credible institutions, is the foundation upon which mutually beneficial partnerships are built.
Mr. Tandoh further noted that the country’s growth depends on its value-addition agenda and strengthening linkages with local content development. With ongoing investments in lithium and other “green” minerals, coupled with a maturing regulatory ecosystem, Ghana is increasingly viewed not only as a destination for extraction but as a hub for mining services, technology transfer, and regional supply chain integration.
The resonance of Ghana’s message was reflected in the calibre of diplomatic attendance. H.E. Benjamin Anani Quashie, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, set a tone of partnership, which was reinforced by a special address from H.E. Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana. Her presence underscored the growing international collaboration in Ghana’s mining sector and served as a strong vote of confidence in its governance trajectory. Their participation signals sustained international recognition of Ghana’s ability to manage its resource wealth responsibly while maintaining a hospitable climate for long-term capital.
Participating state entities, companies, and sector stakeholders included: Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Mineral Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited, Newcore Gold Limited among others.
The Ghana Country Showcase demonstrated the nation’s readiness to attract global investors through a combination of rich mineral resources, progressive policies, and strong institutional leadership. With the Minerals Commission spearheading reforms and efficiency, Ghana is positioning itself as Africa’s leading destination for responsible and profitable mining investment.
Ghana Day 2026 was far more than a showcase; it was a strategic declaration. By bringing its entire value chain – from regulatory bodies and state funds to major miners, explorers and mining support service providers – to the global stage, Ghana demonstrated the institutional coherence and strategic diplomacy required to assert its place among the world’s most credible mining destinations and the leading producer of gold in Africa.
END.
Africa Must Define Its Own Critical Minerals, Says Minerals Commission CEO
Africa Must Define Its Own Critical Minerals – Says Minerals Commission CEO
The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, is calling for a radical shift in how the continent views its natural wealth. He argues that Africa must reject “foreign-imposed” definitions of critical minerals. Speaking on the future of the continent’s extractive sector, the CEO warned that adhering to the Global North’s energy-transition agenda risks turning Africa into a mere source of raw materials. Instead, he proposed an Africa-centered framework designed to fuel domestic industrialization and regional sovereignty.
Mr. Tandoh made these remarks on February 10, 2026, during a roundtable discussion titled, “Is the Term ‘Critical Minerals’ Right for Africa?” The event was held at the Ngorongoro Crater Stage as part of the 2026 African Mining Indaba activities. “Africa should define critical minerals in Africa’s own terms, anchored in our development objectives, our people’s needs, and our continent’s sustainable future,” he stressed.
The CEO expressed the view that the continent is urbanizing, industrializing, and pursuing inclusive growth. “Minerals in Africa are not just inputs for the clean energy revolution. They are the bricks and mortar of African factories, power plants, and digital economies. If we simply adopt foreign definitions, we risk exporting raw ore while importing finished goods,” he stated.
Mr. Tandoh urged that Africa must write its own definition, proposing a three-tier framework:
Core Development Minerals: Those that power Africa’s own industrialization and electrification. These must be processed locally, creating jobs and adding value at home.
Global Energy Transition Minerals: Resources in demand abroad, which should be supplied responsibly but leveraged to build regional processing capacity.
Guardrail Minerals: Those with high environmental or social risks, requiring strict governance and transparency.
He further highlighted three non-negotiable principles: governance, value addition, and adaptability. “Transparent licensing, beneficiation, and a Pan-African monitoring system are not optional; they are obligations to future generations,” Mr. Tandoh said.
The CEO reiterated that Africa should harmonize standards, build regional ecosystems for steel, batteries, and electronics, and engage with partners as co-investors in skills and technology transfer – not merely as buyers of ore.
Mr. Tandoh called for the establishment of a Critical Minerals Charter to set governance standards, beneficiation targets, and milestones for skills development and environmental stewardship on the continent. He urged that it must be co-created with governments, communities, civil society, and industry to ensure every voice is heard.
“Africa’s minerals are critical, but not because the world says so. They are critical because they hold the key to our sovereignty, resilience, and prosperity. If we define them ourselves, mining becomes a catalyst for broad-based growth. If we don’t, we remain a warehouse for other people’s transitions,” he concluded.
Ghana Reaffirms Position as a Premier Mining Investment Destination at Indaba 2026
Ghana Reaffirms Position as a Premier Mining Investment Destination at Indaba 2026
Ghana reaffirmed its status as a leading destination for responsible and sustainable mining investment at the annual Investing in African Mining Indaba, underscoring its commitment to strong governance, transparent regulation, and long-term industry partnerships.
On Monday, February 9, 2026, a high-level Ghanaian delegation, led by Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and joined by Mr. Isaac Tandoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, participated in the conference’s opening ceremony at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The delegation later engaged with stakeholders at the Ghana Pavilion, which showcased key institutions and companies including the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), Cardinal Resources, and The Ghana Chamber of Mines, among others.
On the sidelines of the event, the delegation held strategic meetings with ministers, ambassadors, high commissioners, and industry leaders, focusing on strengthening bilateral partnerships and exploring new strategic opportunities for the sector.
Hon. Buah met with senior leadership from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to advance strategic collaboration in the development of Ghana’s mineral resources. Discussions centered on mobilizing long-term financing for priority gold, bauxite, and iron ore projects, with a focus on value addition and regional supply chain enhancement. The Minister also presented Ghana’s formalization initiative, the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), and invited Afreximbank to support a proposed pan-African ministerial forum aimed at promoting policy harmonization and creating a more coherent investment environment across the continent.
The Minister also held discussions with Mr. Samaila Zubairu, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), exploring ways to boost collaboration in mobilizing capital for Ghana’s mineral sector and Africa’s broader resource potential. Their engagement focused on advancing priority projects in bauxite, gold, and iron ore, emphasizing value addition, project financing, and mechanisms to de-risk large-scale investments in support of Ghana’s industrialization agenda. Hon. Buah underscored the importance of aligning financing, infrastructure, and policy to maximize national benefits and proposed hosting a ministerial convening in Ghana to enhance policy harmony, cross-border cooperation, and the development of sustainable mineral value chains across Africa.
Further strengthening investor engagement, the Lands Minister addressed the Australian Mining in Africa reception forum, where he reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to stable and transparent mining partnerships. He highlighted the country’s robust regulatory framework, democratic governance, and business-friendly environment, emphasizing Ghana’s preference for long-term partnerships. He outlined new investment opportunities in exploration, processing, and green technologies, and announced tax waivers for exploration activities to enhance the investment climate. The forum reinforced the growing strength of Ghana–Australia mining relations.
Throughout the various meetings, the delegation emphasized Ghana’s commitment to building mutually beneficial, long-term partnerships with global investors. They highlighted key areas for collaboration, including advanced geological exploration, mineral value addition, and development of critical mineral value chains. Ghana’s readiness to adopt green and innovative mining technologies was presented alongside recent policy measures and incentives designed to stimulate exploration while upholding strong regulatory oversight.
Supporting this vision, Mr. Tandoh reiterated the Minerals Commission’s pivotal role in facilitating responsible mineral development. He underscored the Commission’s commitment to transparent licensing, effective monitoring, and strict enforcement of environmental, safety, and operational standards. He was accompanied by members of the Commission’s Board, led by the Chairman, Amb. William Ntow Boahene (Esq.).
The first day of Mining Indaba 2026 concluded with renewed confidence in Ghana’s mining governance. The Minerals Commission reaffirmed its dedication to working closely with the Ministry and international partners to advance a sustainable, well-regulated, and competitive mining sector.
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Lands Minister Pays Visit to Minerals Commission Board
Lands Minister Pays Visit to Minerals Commission Board, Signals Reform-Driven Collaboration
Accra, January 28, 2026 – In a significant move to advance institutional collaboration and sectoral reform, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, (MP), paid a working visit to the Board of the Minerals Commission at the headquarters in Accra. The engagement underscores the Ministry’s commitment to fostering responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and transparent governance through a unified reform agenda.
The Board Chairman, Ambassador William Ntow Boahene (Esq.), welcomed the Minister’s visit as timely and forward-looking. He reaffirmed the Board’s full alignment with the Ministry’s strategic direction and assured the Minister of the Commission’s dedication to streamlining operations. Key focus areas include expediting licensing processes and rigorously applying Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards to enhance regulatory performance.
In his remarks, Hon. Buah emphasized the Commission’s pivotal role in achieving the government’s priorities for the mining sector. While commending the Board’s existing leadership, the Minister outlined key reforms centered on stringent licensing protocols, robust environmental safeguards, and strengthened community rights. This collaborative effort is designed to ensure Ghana’s regulatory framework meets international best practices.
This successful engagement marks a new era of policy coherence and institutional accountability for the sector. Both parties concluded with a joint commitment to track progress, resolve operational bottlenecks, and ensure the nation’s mineral wealth delivers equitable and sustainable development for all Ghanaians.
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Lands Minister Commissions Third Batch of 636 Blue Water Guards to Intensify Fight Against Illegal Mining
Lands Minister Commissions Third Batch of 636 Blue Water Guards to Intensify Fight Against Illegal Mining
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On December 20, 2025 – The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP) in a decisive step towards strengthening government’s fight against illegal mining activities, including environmental destruction, has commissioned the third cohort of 636 Blue Water Guards. The move significantly bolsters the national campaign against illegal mining and the restoration of the country’s water bodies.
The passing-out ceremony which took place at the Ezinlibo Naval Base in Jomoro, brought together government officials, regional leaders, and the security agencies of Ghana. The new guards, drawn predominantly from the Ashanti, Central, and Eastern Regions, will be deployed to key illegal mining (galamsey) hotspots to enhance surveillance and enforcement.
Addressing the parade, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah underscored environmental protection as a top government priority. “The protection of Ghana’s environment and water bodies remains central to our national development,” he stated. “The expanded Blue Water Guards initiative will complement existing efforts and send a clear message that we will not relent in our fight against galamsey.” He emphasized that the guards will work closely with the Ghana Navy, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), and other agencies to monitor rivers, detect illegal activities, and safeguard vital water resources.
With this third batch, the total number of trained Blue Water Guards operating nationwide rises to approximately 1,700, marking a substantial reinforcement of Ghana’s frontline environmental protection force.
Echoing the Minister’s call, the Minerals Commission emphasized the need for a collective national response. In a speech delivered on behalf of the Acting CEO, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, by Acting Deputy CEO in charge of Small-Scale Mining & Industrial Minerals, Mr. Maxwell Klu, the Commission described illegal mining as a severe threat to public health, livelihoods, and the nation’s future. Mr. Klu highlighted the extensive damage caused by galamsey, including the pollution of rivers that has turned critical sources of drinking water into contaminated systems. He noted that the impact extends beyond environmental degradation, crippling farming, fishing, and access to clean water in many communities.
Mr. Klu asserted that “While government leadership remains critical, the fight against illegal mining cannot be left to state institutions alone”. “It requires the active involvement of citizens, traditional authorities, civil society, and local communities.” He further outlined the essential actions required going forward, including sustained public education on the dangers of illegal mining, support for responsible mining practices, and the prompt reporting of illegal activities. He also urged citizens to hold public officials accountable for enforcing laws and to support initiatives such as the Blue Water Initiative.
The Commission further called for increased investment in innovative solutions and alternative livelihood programmes to help individuals engaged in illegal mining transition into sustainable, lawful economic activities.
The Blue Water Guard initiative forms part of a wider government strategy that includes:
• Revoking legislations that previously permitted mining in ecologically sensitive areas, reinforcing a strict no-mining stance in forest reserves.
• Implementing reforestation efforts and water restoration programmes to reverse environmental degradation.
• Ensuring coordinated enforcement and community participation through collaboration with the Minerals Commission, security agencies, and community leaders.
The newly commissioned guards will serve as frontline defenders of Ghana’s rivers, with responsibilities ranging from daily surveillance and reporting illegal activities to community education and supporting national anti-galamsey operations.
On his part, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene pledged continued support for the initiative, reaffirming government’s commitment to protecting natural resources and promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah charged the recruits to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and patriotism in their national assignment. On his part, Mr. Klu concluded with a powerful reminder: “Protecting water resources is a national responsibility. Let us remain united in this fight to ensure Ghana’s rivers and lakes remain clean and capable of supporting present and future generations.”
Minerals Commission Awarded At Gold Statement 2025 Conference
The Commission has been honoured for its exceptional regulatory leadership and enduring partnership with the jewellery industry. The recognition was bestowed during the prestigious Gold Statement 2025 Gala Night, held on November 29 at the Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi.
The glittering ceremony marked the grand finale of the two-day Gold Statement summit, a platform that has significantly evolved from a national forum into a truly Pan-African dialogue concerning the jewellery and minerals sector.
Against a backdrop of dazzling jewellery showcases and cultural performances, the Commission was presented with a special award acknowledging its pivotal role in developing and regulating the industry. The honour specifically highlighted the Commission’s critical work in formalising Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale mining landscape, reinforcing the conference theme that the prosperity of Ghana’s jewellery sector is inextricably linked to responsible mining practices.
Speaking at the event, Madam Judy Nakuor Crayem, Chairperson of Gold Statement and CEO of Rapport Services, underscored the vital importance of collaboration between regulators and private industry. She noted that the award bestowed upon the Commission symbolised the sector’s deep appreciation for this continued partnership.
This award is not just for the Commission; it is a recognition of the shared vision we hold with every miner, jeweller, and designer in this room. It reaffirms our collective commitment to transforming Ghana’s mineral wealth into a source of sustainable livelihood, environmental responsibility, and global pride through jewellery. The Commission is committed to deepening this collaboration to ensure our gold tells a story of integrity from the mine to the market. The award positions the Commission as a key architect in building a transparent, sustainable, and globally competitive value chain for Ghanaian gold.
The Gold Statement 2025 successfully convened a diverse and influential gathering, blending high-level policy discussions with technical presentations and a major jewellery exhibition.
This year’s edition saw significant continental expansion, hosting patrons from Nigeria, Malawi, Botswana, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire, among others. The programme attracted high-level sponsorship and collaboration from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Union’s African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC), and the Africa Gem Jewellery Exhibitions & Conference.
Furthermore, the event successfully charted a coherent path for future industry development. A significant milestone included the cementing of a partnership between the Lapidary Institute of Ghana, industry stakeholders, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
The 2025 summit concluded with a renewed focus on the convergence of responsible mining, championed by the Commission, skills development through academic collaboration, and international support to build a resilient, ethical, and globally competitive African jewellery industry.
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Minerals Commission Reaffirms Commitment To Sustainable Local Content Development At Mime 2025
The Commission reinforced its pivotal role in advancing responsible mining and sustainable local content development through its active participation in the 2025 Mining Industry Marketing Expo (MIME). The event, organized by the Ghana Chamber of Mines in partnership with key sector stakeholders, was held at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa from November 12-13, 2025. This annual forum convened industry leaders, businesses, and policymakers to explore pathways toward sustainable growth and enhanced local participation in Ghana’s mining sector.
Led by Madam Victoria Awuni, Deputy CEO for Policy Planning, Mineral Titles & Local Content, and Mr. Ben Birch-Mensah, Director of Local Content, the Commission’s delegation presented a range of strategic policies and programs designed to empower Ghanaian enterprises within the mining value chain. Through a dedicated exhibition booth, the Commission offered stakeholders an interactive platform to engage with regulatory frameworks, licensing procedures, and supplier development opportunities.
A central feature of the Expo was the Business-to-Business (B2B) Sessions, which enabled direct dialogue between mining companies, input manufacturers, and local suppliers. The Commission’s involvement in these sessions highlighted its ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, promoting value addition, and facilitating meaningful partnerships within the industry.
By taking part in MIME 2025, the Commission reiterated its dedication to cultivating an enabling environment where local businesses can thrive. These efforts align with the broader objective of ensuring that Ghana’s mining sector remains competitive, inclusive, and anchored in sustainable national development.
