Mining industry of Ghana

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The Mining industry of Ghana accounts for 5% of the country's GDP and minerals make up 37% of total exports. Gold contributes over 90% of the total mineral exports. Thus, the main focus of Ghana's mining and minerals development industry remains focused on gold. Ghana is Africa's largest gold producer,^[1] producing 80.5 t in 2008. Ghana is also a major producer of bauxite, manganese and diamonds. Ghana has 20 large-scale mining companies producing gold, diamonds, bauxite and manganese; over 300 registered small scale mining groups; and 90 mine support service companies.^[2] Other mineral commodities produced in the country are natural gas, petroleum, salt, and silver.^[3]

Artisanal and small-scale mining accounted for 43% of Ghana's total gold production in 2018, ensuing in high revenue rates and foreign exchange for government.^[4] Despite the fact that this natural resource is a gift to the nation, the way it is being used renders it offensive. Despite the government of Ghana's numerous rules and laws intended to stop small-scale mining operations, the industry thrives. In order to control small-scale mining operations and advance sustainable development, laws such as the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, the Community Mining Program, and the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) have been put in place. Miners continue to operate with impunity, producing extensive environmental degradation, disputes amongst communities, and problems with security officials, among other negative effects, despite the years-long efforts of several governments.