President John Dramani Mahama has assured workers employed by operating gold mines in Ghana that the government’s planned shift from owner mining to contract mining will not affect their salaries, wages or existing conditions of service.
Speaking at the African Minerals Policy Centre’s 2026 Mining in Motion Forum, President Mahama said employees would continue receiving their current remuneration as mining companies increasingly engage indigenous Ghanaian firms to undertake mining operations.
He explained that the policy forms part of the government’s local content agenda, which seeks to increase Ghanaian participation in the mining industry while protecting the interests of existing workers.
Ghana’s Contract Mining Policy to Empower Local Companies
Under the proposed transition, mining companies are expected to engage more Ghanaian-owned businesses to provide contract mining services. The initiative aims to create opportunities for local enterprises, strengthen domestic participation and ensure that more economic benefits from Ghana’s mineral resources remain in the country.
President Mahama emphasised that the policy was not intended to disadvantage workers already employed by mining companies but to expand opportunities for indigenous businesses and promote employment.
Mahama Calls for More Jobs and Skills Development
The President also urged stakeholders in the mining industry to strengthen partnerships and demonstrate measurable progress in local participation, workforce skills development and employment opportunities for young people.
The 2026 Mining in Motion Forum brought together industry stakeholders to explore strategies for helping African countries gain greater economic value from their mineral resources.
The discussions focused on transforming Africa’s mineral wealth into sustainable jobs, business opportunities and improved living standards.
The government’s contract mining initiative is expected to place greater emphasis on local content, Ghanaian-owned mining service companies and broader economic benefits from the country’s gold and mineral resources.
Source: newsthemegh.com