The Ghanaian mining sector is under growing public scrutiny, with stakeholders demanding more than just financial contributions. According to Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, the industry must demonstrate how its significant financial contributions translate into tangible benefits for mining communities. In 2025, the sector contributed over GH¢24.2 billion in fiscal revenue, roughly US$7 billion spent domestically, and US$88.6 million invested directly in communities by Chamber member companies.
Nantogmah made these remarks at the 2026 PR, Environment and Sustainability Seminar in Kumasi, emphasizing the need for the industry to move "from publicity to proof." He stressed that today's better-informed and more skeptical public is unlikely to accept corporate assertions without evidence, particularly in the face of widespread misinformation and disinformation. The industry's significant financial contributions must be backed by visible improvements in mining communities, including stronger local enterprises, improved livelihoods and infrastructure, sustainable employment, and opportunities for communities to experience firsthand.
The Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines highlighted the importance of predictable policies, increased investment, and stronger domestic value retention in achieving lasting impact. He also called for Ghana to progress from local procurement to domestic manufacturing, noting that little value remains in the country when goods bought locally still rely heavily on imported components. High gold prices, he argued, should enable Ghana to attract more exploration funding, increase output, and prolong the operating lives of existing mines.
Donald Gwira, Vice President of the Institute of Public Relations Ghana and guest speaker at the Seminar, echoed Nantogmah's emphasis on evidence and credibility. He distinguished reputation from trust, noting that trust grows when an organization's statements, conduct, and stakeholder experiences align consistently. Gwira called for public relations to extend beyond publicity and function as a core part of strategic management, enabling communications professionals to detect emerging issues and shape responses.
The Seminar's message was clear: under growing public scrutiny, the mining industry's credibility will rest not only on the size of its contribution but also on its capacity to demonstrate concrete, measurable results. The industry must prioritize transparency and accountability, providing evidence of its impact on mining communities. This approach will help build trust and credibility with stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the sector's long-term sustainability.
Nantogmah's call for the industry to demonstrate tangible impact is particularly relevant in the context of Ghana's economic development. The mining sector plays a significant role in the country's economy, and its contributions must be harnessed to drive sustainable growth and development. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and community engagement, the industry can help ensure that its financial contributions translate into lasting benefits for Ghanaian communities.
The Ghana Chamber of Mines' emphasis on demonstrating tangible impact reflects a broader shift towards responsible and sustainable mining practices. As stakeholders increasingly demand more from the industry, companies must adapt to changing expectations and prioritize transparency, accountability, and community engagement. By doing so, the mining sector can help build trust and credibility, ultimately contributing to its long-term sustainability and success.
Key points
- The Ghanaian mining sector must demonstrate how its significant financial contributions translate into tangible benefits for mining communities.
