Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has revealed that the Cabinet of President Akufo-Addo is currently reviewing a policy proposal for the exploitation, management, and utilization of Ghana’s green minerals, including lithium.
The objective of the policy review is to ensure that Ghana retains a significant portion of the value chain for these critical minerals within the country.
Speaking on the government’s approach, Minister Jinapor highlighted the overarching objective of promoting local content and local participation.
Addressing the Ghana Mining Expo in Takoradi on Friday, Abu Jinapor stated the government aims to ensure that Ghanaians, as the owners of these mineral resources, according to the 1992 Constitution, benefit from the mining industry.
Measures, he said, have been taken to increase local procurement, with the number of items on the Local Procurement List reserved for Ghanaians being raised to fifty (50).
“This initiative is expected to retain an estimated annual amount of three billion US dollars (US$3 billion) within the country that would otherwise be directed abroad,” he said.
Minister Jinapor emphasized that while these policies are implemented with investor interests in mind, the government recognizes the importance of mining communities directly affected by mining operations.
“To address their needs, the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) has been established to provide direct financial resources for the benefit of these communities.”
“Additionally, the government has implemented the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP) and the Community Mining Schemes to further support mining communities.”
He called for collaboration and support from all stakeholders, highlighting the importance of working together to source expertise, drive innovation, and build partnerships.
The goal, he said, is to achieve sustainable mineral resource development that will fuel optimal socio-economic growth and development.
Abu Jinapor underscored the shared responsibility of the government and operators in the mining industry, emphasizing the duty to develop mining communities and ensure their well-being.
He expressed the ministry’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo, to work collaboratively with stakeholders to fulfil this sacred duty.
