The Ghana Chamber of Mines has appointed Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey as its new Chief Executive Officer ( CEO), marking a major leadership shift within the country’s mining sector.
The appointment places one of Ghana’s most vocal anti-illegal mining advocates at the center of a powerful industry that has long been entangled in the nation’s fight against “galamsey,” or illegal small-scale mining.
Ashigbey, a seasoned engineer and respected industry leader, previously served as CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the Ghana Digital Chamber, where he championed digital transformation and regulatory collaboration for nearly eight years. He now brings his diverse expertise spanning media, technology, and infrastructure to a sector that plays a critical role in Ghana’s economy, contributing significantly to export earnings and employment.
As CEO, Ing. Dr. Ashigbey will drive the Chamber’s strategic vision, strengthening stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and the sustainable growth of Ghana’s mining industry.
However, his appointment may signal a turning point in his long-running crusade against illegal mining. Ashigbey has, for years, been at the forefront of civil society’s campaign against galamsey, regularly engaging the media and security agencies and calling for stricter enforcement of mining laws. His new position within the apex body of legal, large-scale mining firms may alter public perceptions of his neutrality in the debate.
While his commitment to curbing illegal mining remains unquestioned, Ashigbey’s new role could be viewed as a conflict of interest, potentially complicating his advocacy.
The Chamber also announced the appointment of Mr Ahmed Nantogmah to the newly established role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) reflecting the Chamber’s drive to strengthen its operational efficiency.
He will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day activities and ensuring the effective execution of strategic initiatives. Mr Nantogmah brings extensive expertise in mining policy and corporate affairs, making him well-suited to deliver on the Chamber’s ambitious operational goals.
President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Michael Edem Akafia, Esq. commented on the new appointments, saying, “the appointment of Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey and Ahmed Nantogmah heralds a new chapter for the Chamber. Their combined expertise, leadership, and vision will be instrumental in navigating the dynamic landscape of the mining industry and advancing the interests of our members and the nation.”
