By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
Ghana’s extractive sector recorded significant expansion in 2024, maintaining its upward trajectory with a total of 343 mineral rights granted to companies across the country, according to the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) 2024 Annual Progress Report.
The report revealed that the mining and extractive industry achieved impressive growth, solidifying Ghana’s position as Africa’s leading gold producer for the year under review.
Total gold production increased by 26.8 percent, rising from 3,989,792 ounces in 2023 to 5,059,239 ounces in 2024.
Beyond gold, the NDPC noted that the country’s overall mineral output — including diamond, bauxite, and manganese — grew by 54.6 percent, pushing the sector’s total value to an estimated USD 11.9 billion in 2024.
The Commission further reported that the mining sector contributed significantly to employment creation, generating 1,135,242 jobs last year. Out of this number, 35,242 jobs were created in large-scale operations, while approximately 1.1 million jobs came from small-scale mining activities across various regions.
However, despite the industry’s impressive gains, the NDPC expressed concern over the persistent challenge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. The Commission warned that the environmental damage caused by unregulated operations continues to undermine sustainable development efforts even as formal mining investments expand.
The NDPC called for stronger regulatory enforcement, increased environmental safeguards, and the promotion of responsible mining practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.
The 2024 report also highlighted the government’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving mineral governance, promoting value addition, and strengthening collaboration among key agencies such as the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority.
Ghana remains one of Africa’s fastest-growing mining destinations, with the extractive sector serving as a major driver of employment, export revenue, and regional development.
