Heath Goldfields MD calls for economic independence at NkrumahFest

Patrick Appiah Mensah, the Managing Director of Heath Goldfields, has emphasized the need for Ghana and Africa to shift towards economic independence and control of their resources. Addressing the 2026 NkrumahFest in the Western Region's Ellembelle District, Mr. Mensah highlighted that while Ghana's independence proved Africans could govern themselves, the next challenge was showcasing their ability to manage and benefit from their economic resources.

He questioned whether the African continent could develop its resources, build strong institutions, finance its ambitions, and create sustainable prosperity.

Mensah argued that Ghana's mineral wealth, particularly its gold, should not only be measured by the quantity extracted but by the lasting economic and social benefits derived from mining. He stressed that the real value of gold should reflect the development of skilled professionals, job creation, local businesses, and sustainable mining communities.

He proposed that the benefits should include Ghanaian experts in various fields gaining world-class expertise, while local companies strengthen their presence in the mining value chain. The mining communities should continue to benefit even after mining operations cease.

He drew a parallel between Nkrumah's vision of self-reliance and High Goldfields' philosophy, stressing that the company's role extends beyond gold extraction to demonstrating Ghanaian capability in operating a globally competitive mining enterprise. This includes mobilizing capital, employing modern technology, developing world-class professionals, operating responsibly, protecting the environment, engaging with host communities, and adhering to international standards.

Mr. Mensah called for practical investment in skills, technology, and enterprise to achieve economic independence, which he emphasized cannot come from mere slogans but through competence, discipline, enterprise, technology, and innovation. He also thanked Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, for supporting the revival of the Bogoso-Prestea Gold Mine, stating it represents renewed economic activity, livelihoods, and hope for the affected communities.

He highlighted that the company's operations currently provide employment for about 2,000 Ghanaian nationals, whose economic impact extends to their families, local businesses, and communities.

Mensah challenged young Ghanaians to recognize their capacity to master and lead in complex industries and advanced technologies, emphasizing that High Goldfields aims to prove that no industry, technology, or enterprise is too challenging for Africans to lead. He concluded by urging the country to translate Nkrumah's ideals of economic self-determination into practical action through competence, innovation, local enterprise, and ownership, urging the commemoration of Nkrumah's legacy as a foundation for renewed commitment to economic self-determination.