The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Samuel A. Jinapor, has delivered a compelling address at the 30th anniversary of the Investing in African Mining Indaba held at the Cape Town, on Monday, 5th February 2024, with a resounding call to “Invest in the number one mining destination of Africa, the Minister showcased the country as the undisputed mining hub of Africa.
Ghana’s mining legacy, spanning over a century, was highlighted by the Minister as he emphasized the diverse mineral wealth the country possesses, including gold, diamond, bauxite, manganese, lithium, iron ore, copper, zinc, nickel, chrome, lead, and salt.
Underlining Ghana’s gold production leadership on the continent, he reported an unprecedented four million ounces produced last year, with plans for expansion and the addition of three new gold mines in the country.
“We have three (3) new gold mines currently under construction, one by Newmont in the middle belt of the country, and two in Northern Ghana, by Cardinal Namdini and Azumah Resources, with Cardinal Namdini’s Project expected to pour its first gold this year. With these new mines, and the expansion of existing ones, we expect to increase gold output to some four point five million ounces (4,500,000 oz), annually” He explained.
Breaking away from the conventional notion that gold was exclusive to the southern part of Ghana, the Minister revealed new gold deposits identified in the Savannah Region, inviting investors to join in the exploration of this promising frontier, in Ghana known as the “Dollar Power.”
The Minister also detailed Ghana’s commitment to value addition in mineral resources, showcasing a new four hundred kilogramme (400kg) capacity gold refinery. Fruitful discussions with South Africa’s Rand Refinery were disclosed, indicating progress toward securing a London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) certification.