Ghana targets 2030 to end unprocessed mineral exports

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has announced a target to end the export of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030. The initiative aims to bolster local manufacturing, create employment, and maximize the economic value derived from the nation's natural resources. Mahama noted that Ghana has already implemented bans on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals, with further restrictions on unprocessed ores expected to be introduced gradually.

According to the 2023 Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI) report, the country earned approximately GH¢94 billion from mineral exports in 2023, with the mining sector contributing roughly GH¢12.4 billion to government revenue. However, the report highlighted significant challenges, including the estimated smuggling of 1.1 million ounces of gold during the reporting year.

Phyllis Adwoa Fraikue, National Coordinator of Ghana EITI, emphasized the necessity for stronger regulatory enforcement and improved revenue collection to prevent leakages. The push for value addition was also supported by regional leaders, including Liberia’s Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung and African Union Commissioner Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, who called for increased African cooperation on mineral policies and infrastructure development.