President Mahama Targets 2030

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to end the export of raw mineral ores from Ghana by 2030, as part of efforts to expand local processing, create jobs and accelerate economic development.

Speaking at the Mining in Motion 2026 Summit, the President said the government was committed to ensuring that minerals extracted in the country were increasingly processed domestically before being exported.

He explained that the administration intended to establish a legal framework, supported by clear requirements and implementation deadlines, to make the target achievable.

According to Mahama, Ghana has for decades exported raw mineral resources while other countries have captured much of the economic value associated with processing them. He said this approach had limited opportunities for local employment, skills development and technological advancement.

The President stressed that the country needed to change its approach to mineral production to ensure that more benefits from its natural resources remained within the domestic economy.

As part of the strategy, the government plans to revitalise the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO) and establish the necessary facilities to process bauxite into alumina, an essential material used in aluminium production.

Ghana also intends to strengthen its manganese processing capacity and develop its iron and steel industry to support domestic manufacturing and industrial expansion.

However, Mahama acknowledged that legislation alone would not deliver the desired transformation. He identified dependable and affordable electricity, effective transport networks, stable business regulations and quicker approval procedures as essential conditions for industrial growth.

He further emphasised the need for educational and technical institutions to equip workers with the practical skills required by emerging industries.

The President also pointed to the government’s 24-hour economy programme as a potential driver of increased industrial activity, particularly in manufacturing, transportation and related services.

He cited the restrictions on exporting iron scrap and non-ferrous metals as another measure aimed at encouraging domestic processing and retaining more economic value within Ghana.

Mahama said the broader objective was to build an economy that creates more employment, develops local expertise and derives greater benefits from the country’s mineral wealth through value addition.

Benz_GH feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com