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

According to a report by GHOne TV on Monday October 19, 2026, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on Ghana to focus on processing its minerals locally to help break the cycle of poverty and transform the country’s economy.

He made the call at the African Minerals Policy Centre’s 2026 Mining in Motion forum, where discussions centred on the mining sector and its role in Africa’s economic development.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stressed the need for Ghana to move beyond the export of raw minerals and invest more in local processing and refining. His remarks highlight the importance of adding value to the country’s natural resources before exporting them to international markets.

Ghana is endowed with several valuable minerals, including gold, manganese, bauxite and lithium. However, the benefits the country receives from these resources depend partly on how much value is added locally before they are exported.

Processing minerals within Ghana could create more employment opportunities for young people and provide new opportunities for local businesses. It could also encourage investment in industries that support mining, including manufacturing, transportation, engineering and technology.

The Asantehene’s call also draws attention to the need for policies that support local industries and help Ghana retain a greater share of the wealth generated from its mineral resources.

Developing local mineral processing facilities would require investment in infrastructure, reliable electricity, skilled labour and modern technology. Strong cooperation between the government, mining companies and local businesses would also be important in achieving this goal.

Ghana’s mining sector remains an important source of revenue, foreign exchange and employment. However, increasing local processing could help the country benefit more from its natural resources while reducing its dependence on exporting raw materials.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s remarks have renewed attention on the need for Ghana to use its mineral wealth as a foundation for sustainable economic growth, industrial development and poverty reduction.

His message is clear: Ghana must do more than extract its minerals. The country must also process them locally to create jobs, strengthen industries and improve the living standards of its people.

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