The Ghana Chamber of Mines has thrown its weight behind government’s strategic push to diversify the country’s mineral assets, following the discovery of commercially significant nickel deposits in Ghana’s Oti region.
This show of support comes on the heels of exploratory work by the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) in collaboration with the Ghana Geological Survey Authority. Initial drill results indicate nickel concentrations exceeding one percent, an encouraging figure that suggests economic potential and positions Ghana as a possible contender in the burgeoning global market for critical minerals, particularly those driving the green energy transition.
While the full economic viability of the deposit awaits certified lab analysis, the early findings have been described as “promising” by geological officials.
Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, speaking in an interview, pledged the industry’s willingness to partner with government and other stakeholders in unlocking the potential of the newly identified resource.
“We need to wait for more details from the Minerals Commission to determine the size and commercial viability of the deposit. If it proves economically viable, the government has mechanisms for engaging investors, and we are prepared to support these efforts. Successfully developing this resource could diversify our portfolio, create jobs, and generate revenue to advance Ghana’s development agenda,” said Nantogmah.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of the find in advancing Ghana’s ambition to broaden its mineral portfolio beyond the traditional gold and manganese production, with downstream value creation seen as a key driver of sustainable growth.
In addition to backing the nickel initiative, the Chamber reiterated its long-standing call for the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on exploration activities, a cost burden it argues is counterproductive to discovery and development.
“Exploration is the lifeblood of mining. Without exploration, mining cannot occur. The discovery of nickel is a direct result of exploration. However, exploration companies are currently burdened with VAT on key activities like assaying and drilling. We have consistently engaged the government on the need to remove VAT to encourage more exploration,”Nantogmah added.
With global demand for critical minerals surging due to accelerating clean energy and battery technology investments, Ghana’s emergence as a potential nickel producer could prove transformative. The Chamber’s endorsement signals strong industry alignment with the government’s vision, setting the stage for collaborative progress as the country eyes new frontiers in mineral development.
