Ghana mining reforms must benefit citizens, not just investors – Armah-Kofi Buah

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called on mining investors to ensure their operations create jobs, support local businesses and improve the lives of Ghanaians as the government reforms the country’s mineral sector.

He said the ongoing reforms were aimed at improving the management of Ghana’s mineral resources, maintaining constructive relations with investors and ensuring the sector contributed more meaningfully to national development.

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Speaking at the 2026 Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, Buah said investors needed clear regulations, fair treatment and a predictable business environment to make long-term investment decisions.

He assured industry players that the government would respect lawful agreements and maintain open dialogue with investors as it introduced changes to mineral governance.

He added that mining projects must remain commercially viable and provide reasonable returns for investors.

Buah said the government was committed to protecting legitimate investments while ensuring that the wealth generated from Ghana’s mineral resources translated into broader benefits for citizens.

However, the Minister stressed that the success of the mining industry should not be measured by profits and investment figures alone, but also by its contribution to job creation, skills development, local enterprise and environmental protection.

"Our citizens have equally legitimate expectations. They want jobs, skills, opportunities for local enterprise, protection of the environment and a fair share of the prosperity produced from their own resources," he said.

"The invitation is straightforward. Come and invest. Come and build with us. Let us negotiate fairly, honour our commitments and work for outcomes that benefit both the investor and the host countries," he added.

Buah urged investors to make their operations part of Ghana’s broader development efforts, stressing that the government wanted partnerships that benefited both businesses and the communities whose resources supported mining activities.

ANAS/MA

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