Ghana targets end to raw mineral exports by 2030 to boost local industry

Ghana has set an ambitious goal to cease exporting raw mineral ores by 2030 as it aims to bolster in-country processing and manufacturing, thereby converting its mineral wealth into local industries and employment opportunities. President John Dramani Mahama unveiled this objective during the African Minerals Policy Forum in the capital, Accra, under the theme “The Accra Reset and Africa’s Mineral Sovereignty.”

Mahama questioned Africa's ability to transform raw minerals into finished products, emphasizing the disparity between exporting raw materials and importing finished goods manufactured from its own resources. He urged attendees to rethink mineral agreements and benefit distribution.

Drawing attention to Ghana's historical pattern of exporting manganese and bauxite, only to import the refined products, Mahama lamented the loss of skilled jobs, technological advancements, and industrial growth. The Accra Reset agenda, according to Mahama, seeks to fortify domestic mineral processing and align extraction more closely with manufacturing.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives in the bauxite-to-aluminum, iron ore and steel, manganese processing, and gold refining sectors as crucial steps towards retaining greater economic value within Ghana. Additionally, Mahama announced plans to progressively prohibit the export of unprocessed mineral ores, backed by legal frameworks and clear implementation timelines.