The Ghana Chamber of Mines, in partnership with the African Center for Energy Policy (ACEP), has undertaken a study aimed at positioning Ghana as the leading hub for mining support services in West Africa.
This initiative seeks to leverage the country’s well-established mining infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location to enhance the competitiveness of local businesses in the mining supply chain.
Speaking with the media, Dr. Sulemanu Koney, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, noted the significance of the project, describing it as a flagship program of the Chamber.
He said; “making Ghana a mining support services hub is one of the key strategies we are pursuing to ensure the sustainability and growth of the sector.”
He said the study highlighted Ghana’s potential to become a regional center for mining equipment, technology, and related services, serving not only domestic mining operations but also companies across West Africa.
By enhancing local procurement policies, encouraging foreign investments, and strengthening local suppliers, “the Chamber believed Ghana can reduce its reliance on imported mining inputs and create more jobs in the industry,” he added.
The CEO said a key focus of the initiative is the growth of local mining supply chain businesses, enabling them to compete with international suppliers.
Dr. Koney said the Chamber has already been involved in facilitating partnerships between Ghanaian businesses and multinational mining service providers, such as the recent commissioning of the FLSmidth Service Centre, a key development that reinforces Ghana’s leadership in mining excellence.
However, the African Center for Energy Policy (ACEP), which played a crucial role in the study, has stressed the importance of implementing a robust industrial policy to support the growth of Ghana’s mining support services sector.
Dr. Charles Ofori, Policy Lead for Climate Change and Energy Transition at ACEP, stated that a strong industrial framework would be critical to establishing Ghana as a regional hub.
“There is a need for policies that incentivize local mining service providers, ensuring they have the capacity to meet both national and regional demand,” Dr. Ofori emphasized.
He also noted that harmonizing mining regulations across West African countries could improve cross-border trade in mining services.
When The High Street Journal (THSJ) enquired about economic recommendations, Dr Koney said enhancing Ghana’s mining support services would increase jobs, increase foreign direct investment, and improve the country’s trade balance by reducing mining sector imports.
Also, he dentified opportunities in mine infrastructure development, maintenance services, and logistic areas to make Ghanaian businesses compete globally if given the right support.
“As part of the next phase of this initiative, the Chamber plans to engage with policymakers, mining firms, and financial institutions to develop a roadmap for turning Ghana into the preferred destination for mining support services in Africa,” he said.
He also said the final policy is yet to be presented to the President, John Dramani Mahama for its implementation since it commencement in 2021.
