The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to cementing the country's status as the mining hub of Africa.

Speaking at the Mining and Power Conference and Exhibition organised by the Ghana Chamber of Mines, the minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, highlighted the sector's significant contribution to the national economy, accounting for 47% of total export receipts in 2022.

"Ghana is now the leading producer of gold in Africa, hosting the world's largest raise-bore hole and serving as the centre of mine support services in the West African Region, he mentioned.

The Minster attributed the achievements in the sector to policies implemented by President Akufo-Addo's administration which aimed at consolidating Ghana's position as a leader in the mining industry.

He acknowledged the challenges that come with this feat, including balancing resource extraction with environmental protection, community development, and social responsibility.

To address these challenges, the said the government is committed to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices.

He assured that the government will continue to implement policies and programmes designed to create an enabling environment to drive sustainable investment in responsible mining and power generation. We are investing in infrastructure, to decentralise the operations of the Minerals Commission, the regulator of the sector, to make it more efficient.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who was the special guest, urged mining companies to retain part of their profit in the country to help accelerate national development.

He said this was the only way Ghana could reap the benefits of mining as pertained in countries like South Africa.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made the call in a speech read on his be­half by the Essumagyamanhene and the Head of the Benkum Wing of the Asanteman Council, Odeneho Okyere Kusi Ntrama, at the opening of the 17th West African Mining and Power Con­ference and Exhibition, in Accra.

The conference, themed "The Mining and Power Hub: Driving Sustainable Investment Opportunities in West Africa," brought together policymakers, industry players, and experts to dialogue, share knowledge, build capacity, and form partnerships.
This event is crucial for advancing sustainable development goals in the mining sector.

With three new large-scale mines under construction and numerous Ghanaians working in the industry worldwide, Ghana is poised to maintain its position as the mining hub of Africa.