Mahama sets 2030 deadline to end Ghana's raw mineral exports
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to end exports of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030 to boost local manufacturing, create jobs and retain more value from the country's natural resources.
Speaking at the Mining in Motion Summit in Accra on Monday, Mahama said Ghana must move away from exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
“I've set a clear goal that by 2030, raw mineral ores should no longer leave our shores,” he declared.
Mahama said Ghana had already banned exports of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals, with further restrictions on unprocessed ores to be introduced gradually.
Liberia's Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung called for stronger African cooperation on mineral policies, stressing the need for reliable electricity, infrastructure and skilled workers.
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African Union Commissioner Francisca Tatchouop Belobe also urged African countries to transform their mineral wealth into competitive industries rather than continue exporting raw materials.
The initiative forms part of Mahama's agenda to strengthen domestic industries and ensure Ghana benefits more from its mineral resources.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
