Tianjin: Ghana's Ambassador to China, Kojo Bonsu, has reiterated the government's commitment to collaborating with investors who are keen to support President John Dramani Mahama's policy on adding value to the nation's mineral resources. Addressing the investor community at the China Mining Conference in Tianjin, China, he emphasized the significance of value addition in managing Ghana's mineral resources.
According to Ghana Web, the Ambassador stated that Ghana is determined to move away from exporting raw minerals and importing finished products at higher costs, advocating for local beneficiation such as refining bauxite to alumina. He emphasized that the government is establishing the necessary structures to facilitate value addition, including building frameworks, infrastructure, and incentives to enhance value, skills, and employment opportunities.
Ambassador Bonsu highlighted that the administration of President John Dramani Mahama is not only reshaping the mining industry but also altering the broader approach to exploiting and developing Ghana's mineral resources. He described the current government as one that views mining as a central pillar of the national development agenda.
He also acknowledged China's role as a significant partner in infrastructure, trade, and the mining and minerals value chain. He invited the Chinese investment community to explore opportunities for mutual partnerships based on fair terms, emphasizing the importance of technology transfer, local content development, and shared prosperity.
Furthermore, Ambassador Bonsu called for a transparent regulatory environment, a skilled workforce, and a government that sees mining as a catalyst for development.
Ghana's Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who also spoke at the Ghana Forum, addressed challenges in the mining sector, including gaps in geological information affecting resource development. He highlighted regulatory reforms and the establishment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat as measures to combat illegal mining. The Minister also noted the government's efforts in promoting cooperative mining and medium-scale mining to support value addition to Ghana's mineral resources.