The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Andrews Tandoh, has vehemently denied claims that Ghana is embarking on a path of nationalizing its mining sector.
In a candid interview with Joy News, Mr. Tandoh clarified that the government’s recent actions are part of a deliberate and strategic drive to secure more equitable and beneficial terms for the Ghanaian people from its mineral resources.
“There hasn’t been a policy for nationalisation. We are not Burkina Faso. We are not Mali. But we are pushing for indigenisation,” Mr. Tandoh asserted, directly addressing concerns that Ghana might be following the path of other African nations that have taken a more direct state role in their mining industries.
His remarks come in the wake of significant public discussion surrounding the government’s decision regarding the Damang Mine. While some observers have interpreted this move as a step towards nationalisation, Mr. Tandoh firmly stated that the core objective is to establish a more balanced mining regime that prioritizes Ghana’s long-term interests.
“We support foreign investment. But some of these agreements cannot be in perpetuity. It cannot be forever,” he argued. “If you’ve been given a lease for 30 years and you’ve worked through the 30 years, it cannot be business as usual. Those neo-colonial types of agreements cannot continue.”
This statement underscores the government’s stance that long-standing agreements need to be reviewed and potentially adjusted to reflect current realities and ensure Ghana receives a fair share of the benefits.
Mr. Tandoh stressed that the evolving policy is not a sudden or impulsive reaction but rather a carefully considered strategy aimed at maximizing the returns from Ghana’s natural wealth for its citizens.
“This is about Ghana. This is about ensuring our infrastructure, our communities, and our people benefit from what is under their feet,” he emphasized, highlighting the broader socio-economic goals driving the government’s approach.
He further clarified that Ghana remains open and welcoming to foreign investors but seeks partnerships built on principles of mutual benefit and fairness.
“We’re not saying don’t come. We’re saying, let’s do fair business. Let’s look again at what we signed 30 years ago. The times have changed,” Mr. Tandoh stated.
According to the Minerals Commission CEO, the commission is actively engaged in a comprehensive evaluation of existing mining agreements.
This process is geared towards advocating for reforms that promote sustainability and long-term prosperity for Ghana. “We are evaluating everything. We are protecting Ghana’s future,” he affirmed.
