Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Chamber
The Ghana Chamber of Mines has renewed its call for stable and predictable mining policies, emphasising that long-term investment and sustainable industry growth depend heavily on policy consistency. The appeal was made during the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) held at the Movenpick Hotel in Accra.
In his address, Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Chamber, underscored that Ghana stands at a critical point in its mining journey, one marked by global competition, heightened societal expectations, and the need for investor confidence. He noted that fluctuating regulatory frameworks, particularly in fiscal regimes, pose significant risks to mining companies whose investments span decades.
Mining investments are capital-intensive, high-risk, and multi-decade in nature,” he stated, urging government to prioritise a consistent, transparent and balanced policy environment that supports both national interest and business growth. He further stressed the need for a fair approach to the proposed sliding-scale royalty regime, warning that an onerous structure could deter investment and stifle industry expansion.
The Chamber President also advocated for the establishment of a Minerals Revenue Management Act, a framework similar to Ghana’s petroleum revenue governance structure. Such a system, he argued, would promote transparency, accountability and equitable use of mineral revenues to benefit both host communities and the wider economy.
Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, in his welcome remarks applauded government for scrapping VAT on exploration activities in the 2026 Budget. He described the move as a bold step toward attracting new investments, bolstering mineral reserves, and enhancing Ghana’s competitiveness as a mining destination.
Dr. Ashigbey highlighted the strong partnerships between the Chamber and regulatory bodies, including the Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. He noted that such collaborations have helped maintain clarity in policy implementation and ensured that mining operations continue to protect the environment and deliver value to the national economy.
Both leaders acknowledged the threat of illegal mining, calling for enhanced enforcement and support for state institutions tackling the menace. They emphasised that responsible mining and the industry's reputation depend on upholding the rule of law and safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
The awards ceremony, held under the theme “Celebrating Excellence in Mining: Creating Value Beyond Minerals,” recognised outstanding contributions across safety, innovation, community development and operational excellence. The event also highlighted human-impact stories, including beneficiaries of the Chamber’s educational and skills development initiatives, which demonstrate the industry's crucial role in community upliftment.
As the night concluded, AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine was crowned Mining Company of the Year, while Dr. Catherien Kuupol Kutor, General Manager of Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine, received the prestigious Mining Personality of the Year award. The late Kwame Addo-Kufuor was also honoured posthumously with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the industry.
The 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards was proudly sponsored by Gold Fields, AngloGold Ashanti, Zijin Golden Ridge, Newmont, Newcore/Cape Coast Resources, Perseus Mining Ghana Limited, UMA, Sandvik Ghana, Interplast, and Stanbic Bank. Additional support for the event was provided by SMT Ghana, Asanko Gold Ghana, DRA, Mining Tools Ghana, Carmeuse Lime Products, and Liebherr.
As the mining sector navigates global transitions such as digitalisation, decarbonisation and evolving mineral demands, the Chamber reiterated its readiness to collaborate with government, labour, communities and civil society. Their shared objective: build a modern, ethical and globally competitive mining industry anchored in sustainability and policy stability.
Both the President and CEO concluded with an assurance that the industry remains a committed partner in Ghana’s development agenda, stressing that policy consistency will be instrumental in unlocking the sector’s full potential for future generations.
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