Martin Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission, has announced that following a strategic partnership between the Government of Ghana and a Chinese manganese company, the country is set to build a US$450 million refinery in Ghana.

This initiative aims to add value to the country’s manganese production.

Mr Ayisi revealed that this project is expected to increase Ghana’s revenue from manganese from the current 27% to nearly 40%.

He emphasised the positive economic impact, noting that the refinery will also create approximately 400,000 jobs for Ghanaian youth.

Mr Ayisi was speaking at the 7th Annual Mining on Top Africa Summit in Paris-France on Wednesday, 3rd July 2024, Mr Ayisi on the theme “Mining Partnership for Long-Term Successful Projects: Meeting Obligations and Exploring New Avenues.”

He highlighted the government’s commitment to initiating construction of the refinery in August 2024, underscoring that Ghana, through its Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is dedicated to transforming the mineral sector.

Mr Ayisi remarked that while Ghana has been exporting raw manganese since 1916, the current government is focused on ending this practice and adding value locally.

Additionally, he stated plans to establish a lithium mine by the end of 2024, with the project expected to take 22 months to complete. This will further enhance local processing capabilities and add value to Ghana’s mineral resources.

He urged other African countries to follow Ghana’s lead in local participation in mineral resource projects.

He advocated for policies that allow local citizens to benefit from the value chain, even suggesting local ownership of shares in mining companies.

Mr Ayisi also highlighted the importance of stable governance for long-term partnerships, advising investors to consider a country’s regime and practices before committing.