Lands Minister urges West African States to deepen cooperation in mining and energy sectors

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has urged West African countries to combine responsible mining practices with reliable energy systems to drive industrial expansion, create jobs and advance sustainable development across the sub-region.

He appealed on Wednesday at the opening of the 2026 West African Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX 2026) in Accra.

He stated that the global demand for critical minerals is rising and West Africa is well positioned to benefit through investment and technology inflows.

He noted that the region hosts extensive mineral deposits including gold, bauxite, iron ore, diamonds, manganese and lithium, describing this as an opening for stronger economic transformation.

He said Ghana is pursuing reforms aimed at shifting the mining sector toward value addition and broader economic impact.

According to the minister, progress in the sector should be assessed beyond extraction volumes to include industrial growth, employment creation, expanded local participation and improvements in living standards.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to address illegal mining, which he described as a major challenge to the industry.

He said authorities are strengthening enforcement, improving monitoring systems, and implementing institutional reforms to protect natural resources and safeguard the environment.

Mr Buah called for closer alignment between mining and energy policies to support responsible investment and long-term growth.

He encouraged West African states to deepen cooperation to improve investor confidence and strengthen the region’s position in global mineral supply chains.

The three-day expo is being held at the La Palm Beach Resort in Accra under the theme “How Can Responsible Mining and Power Accelerate West Africa’s Sustainable Development.”