Ghana Must Process Its Minerals Locally To End Poverty — Otumfuo Sends Strong Message To Gov’t

Delivering his address at the African Minerals Policy Centre’s 2026 Mining in Motion forum, the traditional ruler emphasized that exporting unprocessed natural resources limits the economic gains Ghana derives from its vast mineral reserves. Although Ghana possesses significant deposits of gold, manganese, bauxite, and lithium, the long-term economic value retained domestically depends heavily on value-addition initiatives.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II highlighted that establishing local refining and processing facilities would generate substantial employment opportunities for youth while empowering domestic enterprises. Furthermore, building downstream capacity would stimulate growth across related sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and technology.

To achieve this industrial shift, the Asantehene stressed the necessity of supportive government policies, robust infrastructure development, stable power supply, skilled labor training, and technological modernization. He called for strong strategic partnerships between state authorities, private mining corporations, and local business entities to turn resource extraction into industrial success.

While the mining industry remains a major driver of Ghana’s GDP and foreign exchange earnings, transitioning from raw exports to value-added production offers a more sustainable path toward economic resilience. The Asantehene’s call serves as a timely reminder that converting raw mineral wealth into processed goods is essential for creating durable jobs, fostering industrial growth, and improving the standard of living for all Ghanaians.

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