"Ghana is proof of responsible investment, transformative development" – Lands Minister declares at WAMPEX 2025

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has declared that Ghana is not just a mining destination, but a shining example of how responsible investment can drive transformative development across the West African subregion.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 edition of the West Africa Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX) at the Accra International Conference Centre on Wednesday, May 28, the Minister underscored Ghana’s leadership in sustainable mining and urged other African countries to emulate the country’s approach to responsible resource development.

“Ghana is not just a mining destination—we are proof that responsible investment and transformative development can go hand in hand,” Hon. Buah stated, drawing applause from an audience of industry leaders, policymakers, and investors.

The Minister revealed that Ghana attracted approximately $1.2 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) into the mining sector in 2024 alone, attributing this to the country's political stability, skilled workforce, and transparent regulatory environment.

He also pointed to the positive impact of the Mineral Development Fund, which has directly benefited over 100 mining communities, highlighting Ghana’s shift from corporate social responsibility to genuine shared value creation.

Mr. Buah identified four strategic pillars anchoring Ghana’s mining success—investor confidence, community impact, environmental stewardship, and transparent governance—and called on WAMPEX 2025 to mark a new era of sustainable deals and transformative partnerships in West Africa.

“Our doors are open, our policies are clear, and our commitment is unwavering,” the Minister added. “Let WAMPEX 2025 be remembered as the moment we turned promise into practice.”

Also addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the Conference and President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, Esq., urged stakeholders to align their strategies with sustainable development goals to maximize socio-economic gains.

The CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Mr. Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, in his welcome address, highlighted this year’s theme, “The Mining and Power Hub: Driving Sustainable Investment Opportunities in West Africa,” and encouraged companies to remain resilient and position themselves as catalysts for regional transformation.

WAMPEX 2025, currently underway in Accra, brings together senior industry professionals, government representatives, and international stakeholders to deliberate on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the mining and power sectors across West Africa.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith