If appropriate strategies are put in place, Ghana’s natural resources have the potential to contribute significantly, not only to the progressive socio-economic and political development of the country but to the transformation of the economy, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Nii Osah Mills has said.

Speaking at the maiden Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) held recently on the theme: ‘Recognising Excellence, Celebrating Achievement in the Mining Industry,’ Mr Osah Mills said “as is very evident, minerals and metals are essential raw materials for industrialisation and are critical to the transformation of economies that are highly dependent on mining.”

Mr Mills said Ghana presents a number of opportunities in the mining sector, especially in the gold industry.

“We pride ourselves on being the second-largest gold producer in Africa, after South Africa and the 10th largest globally.

“But we are blessed with much more natural resources than just gold. The country has both tapped and untapped reserves of bauxite, manganese, solar salt, iron ore, limestone, and clay,” he said.

According to the Minister, the theme “is very opportune because it offers an opportunity to spur mining companies on to achieve outstanding heights in the industry at this time of declining metal prices and escalating costs.”

“Without a doubt, mining companies that will weather the storm need to demonstrate excellence in several facets of their operations,” Osah Mills added.