Former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo, has called for a comprehensive review of the country’s mining laws to ensure that Ghana derives greater economic benefits from its natural resources.
Speaking at a press conference on maximising the benefits of Ghana’s natural resources, Justice Akuffo emphasized that the current mining agreements are reminiscent of colonial-era arrangements, where foreign companies reap substantial profits while Ghana earns minimal returns.
To address this issue, Justice Akuffo proposed the establishment of a small committee of experienced Ghanaian experts to review and recommend necessary amendments to the country’s natural resource laws. “There is a need to set up a small committee of about five experienced Ghanaian experts in the natural resources sector to review and recommend necessary amendments to all natural resource laws in Ghana to optimize the benefits of natural resources to the country,” she said.
Justice Akuffo also stressed the need for policy reforms to enhance local value creation and drive economic transformation. She advocated for the amendment of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) to involve local governments in the management of mineral resources. “The Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) should contain a provision that moves the management of some mineral resources to local governments such that District Assemblies are directly involved in the management of these resources,” she added.
Justice Akuffo’s call for reform comes at a time when Ghana’s mining industry is facing various challenges, including the need for more transparent and equitable agreements. By reviewing and amending the country’s mining laws, Ghana can work towards a more sustainable and beneficial mining industry for its citizens.
