By Racheal Quartey and Rukayatu Musah
Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has commended the strong partnership between government, the private sector, and local communities as she officially opened the Newmont Ahafo North Mine, describing it as a milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of sustainable development and economic growth.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Vice President lauded the new mine as a “symbol of partnership and progress” built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared vision for national prosperity.
“We are shaping a future of sustainable development — one that shows what government, business, and communities can accomplish when we work together,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stated.
She revealed that Ghana’s gold industry contributed GH₵88.1 billion to the national GDP last year, while gold exports hit a record US$11.2 billion as of August 2025.
“These figures reflect the growing confidence in our economy, governance, and national potential,” she said proudly, adding that “Ghana now stands as Africa’s number one gold producer and the sixth-largest globally.”
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended Newmont Corporation, which has operated in Ghana for nearly three decades, for its continued investment in the country — from Ahafo South and Akyem to the new Ahafo North site.
“With an initial investment exceeding US$1 billion, the Ahafo North Mine demonstrates Ghana’s stability and attractiveness for global investment,” she emphasized.
The Vice President also called for a shift from raw mineral exports toward value addition and local beneficiation, stressing the need to retain more economic value within the country.
“When we export unprocessed gold, we export jobs and opportunity. Our vision is to bring Ghana’s mineral wealth home — and keep it here.”
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Responsible Mining
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting responsible, inclusive, and sustainable mining practices as Ghana strengthens its position as Africa’s leading gold producer.
He described the event as a “defining milestone in the nation’s mining history” and highlighted the transformative impact of responsible mining, local content development, and transparent governance.
“It sends a clear message to Newmont that we value and will protect the partnership Ghana has forged with you over the last three decades,” Mr. Buah said.
The Minister also acknowledged ongoing challenges such as illegal mining, commending both government initiatives and Newmont’s leadership in promoting environmental restoration and transparency in the mining sector.
Strengthening Ghana–U.S. Economic Ties
Rolf Olson, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Accra, described the Ahafo North investment as a testament to the strong partnership between Ghana and the United States.
He noted that the US$1 billion investment, largely executed by Ghanaian staff and local suppliers, brings innovative technology, supports local enterprise, and reinforces Ghana’s economic growth and democratic stability.
A Historic Moment for Newmont Ghana
In his remarks, Mr. Danquah Addo-Yobo, Country Head of Newmont Ghana, described the opening as a rare and historic achievement, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of planning, resilience, and collaboration.
“Opening a new mine is not a common occurrence,” he said. “The Ahafo North project is a greenfield that has been nurtured over the years to maturity. Today’s ceremony represents the power of partnership, perseverance, and disciplined investment.”
Background
Newmont’s Ahafo North Mine, located in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region, is expected to become one of Ghana’s most advanced gold operations. The project builds on Newmont’s strong track record in the country, further positioning Ghana as a global leader in responsible gold production.
