Ghana mining reforms attract interest from Malawi delegation

A delegation from Malawi, led by Minister of Mining Thoko Tembo, visited Ghana to study its mining sector reforms and gold governance. Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the mission focused on responsible sourcing, artisanal mining, and mineral-related business financing.

Ghanaian officials, including Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah and Minerals Commission CEO Isaac Tandoh, presented the country’s governance framework. Discussions covered gold purchasing, traceability, production accounting, and revenue management. Proposed reforms in Ghana include a revised mining licensing regime with clearer timelines and the involvement of district-level committees in assessing concessions to improve oversight.

Domestically, Ghana is implementing the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020. This policy mandates that indigenous Ghanaian companies undertake surface mining contract operations, while underground mining requires partnerships where Ghanaian-owned entities hold at least 50 percent interest. These measures aim to increase local employment and retain a larger share of mining revenue within the country.