Accra: The Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Berenice Owen-Jones, has underscored the significant contributions of Australian companies to Africa's socio-economic development, revealing that over the last 50 years, more than A$60 billion has been invested across 30 African countries.
According to Ghana Web, High Commissioner Owen-Jones, during her speech at the Australia Day celebration on January 26, 2026, highlighted the extensive involvement of Australian firms in Africa's extractive sector. She emphasized that these investments have greatly contributed to both economic growth and community development throughout the continent.
Expressing pride in the achievements of Australian companies, she stated, "I am always happy to advocate the story of Australian companies' contribution to the African extractives sector over the last fifty years or so. With over 170 Australian mining companies active in 30 African countries and investments exceeding A$60 billion, we are proud of their contribution to economic growth and community development."
Furthermore, Owen-Jones praised the responsible investment practices of these companies, acknowledging their commitment to local communities and adherence to high standards of occupational health, safety, and environmental practices.
Focusing specifically on Ghana, the High Commissioner highlighted the mutually beneficial relationship between Australian companies and the Ghanaian government. She pointed to the Atlantic Lithium project at Ewoyaa as an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral ties, noting its potential to create numerous jobs and generate substantial tax and royalty income.
She remarked, "It is a story of Australian companies working in partnership with the Ghanaian government and local communities. Whether it is the Edikan Perseus Mine, which employs more than 1,100 Ghanaians, or the potential of Atlantic Lithium-Ghana's first lithium project."
Owen-Jones also observed the remarkable strengthening of the bilateral relationship between Ghana and Australia during her tenure, attributing this to deliberate initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, marks the official national day of Australia, commemorating the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788 and the raising of the British flag by Arthur Phillip. The day is celebrated with public festivities, community events, and citizenship ceremonies across Australia.