Ghana woos Australian investors into critical minerals

Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has called on Zijin Mining Group to prioritize Ghana as the central hub for its African mining expansion. Speaking during an official visit to China, Armah-Kofi Buah told Zijin's President, Lin Hongfu, that Ghana was well-positioned as a major mining investment destination on the continent. He urged the Chinese conglomerate to make Ghana their focal point and long-term strategic partner in mining, rather than viewing the relationship as a short-term business deal.

Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted Ghana's mature mining industry, expertise in mineral production, and strategic location in West Africa as ideal conditions for Zijin to expand its presence in Africa. He emphasized that Ghana's government was ready to facilitate a mutually beneficial partnership, enabling the company to deepen its operations while maximizing value for the country.

The minister also praised Zijin's mining model, which combines mineral extraction with environmental restoration, infrastructure development, biodiversity conservation, and eco-tourism. He challenged Ghanaian mining companies to prioritize environmental protection, reclamation, water-body conservation, and infrastructure development as part of their operations.

Zijin's President responded by promising to build a robust mining system in Ghana, leveraging the company's technical expertise, financial resources, and global supply chain. He also stated that Zijin would introduce electric vehicles into Ghana's mining sector to reduce emissions and promote environmentally sustainable practices.