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Mining & Energy

Parliament urged to enforce mineral royalty payments to communities

The News

Ghana's Extractive Sector Multi-Stakeholder Group has urged Parliament to summon State agencies over delays in disbursing mineral royalties to mining host communities, saying the delays are stalling development projects and undermining the Minerals Development Fund Act. The group called for Parliament to hold state institutions accountable and make public information on delayed payments to strengthen transparency.

5 hours ago · The Chronicle →

Today

Parliament urged to enforce mineral royalty payments to communities
Ghana's Extractive Sector Multi-Stakeholder Group has urged Parliament to summon State agencies over delays in disbursing mineral royalties to mining host communities, saying the delays are stalling development projects and undermining the Minerals Development Fund Act. The group called for Parliament to hold state institutions accountable and make public information on delayed payments to strengthen transparency.
5 hours ago · The Chronicle →

Yesterday

UMA employs 320 local workers at Ahafo South Mine
The Underground Mining Alliance, operating at Newmont's Ahafo South Mine, employs more than 320 direct workers from 10 host communities, representing 52 percent of the company's total workforce. The contract mining firm has established an employment model prioritizing local labor across all operational tiers over the past eight years.
16 hours ago · Joy Online →
NAIMOS arrests 19 illegal miners at Mpohor Fiase in Western Region
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) arrested 19 suspected illegal miners at Mpohor Fiase in the Western Region following reports of galamsey activities. During the operation on July 29, officers destroyed mining equipment including 16 chanfang machines, nine water pumps, and three temporary structures, and recovered a pump-action shotgun with ammunition and GH¢120,000 in cash.
17 hours ago · The Ghanaian Times →
Conference urges Africa to govern critical minerals responsibly
A three-day Regional High-Level Conference on Governance, Critical Minerals, and Conflict in Africa ended in Accra with calls for stronger governance systems, transparency, and greater citizen participation in decisions concerning mineral resources. Delegates also urged African countries to move beyond exporting raw minerals by investing in beneficiation, refining, manufacturing, and skills development to create greater value and employment on the continent.
19 hours ago · Joy Online →
Chinese entrepreneur transforms Ghana mining with mechanization over 25 years
Dai Mingsheng arrived in Ghana in 2001 with mining machinery and has spent a quarter-century introducing mechanised mining technology to the country's small-scale mining sector, growing from two containers into a full-service operation supplying machinery, technical support, and training through China Xinzheng-Ghana Friendly Development Company Ltd.
19 hours ago · Daily Guide →
Ghana should export mining technology, not raw minerals
Mining entrepreneur Alhaji Ali Ibrahim has called on Ghana to develop and export world-class mining technologies and systems rather than continue exporting raw minerals, arguing the country has over a century of mining experience and enough mineral reserves for another 300 years to sustain such innovation.
20 hours ago · Joy Online →
Africa urged to adopt critical minerals governance framework
A three-day high-level conference in Accra concluded with calls for African governments to adopt a governance framework centred on transparency, democratic accountability, industrialisation and citizen participation in the continent's critical minerals sector.
20 hours ago · Joy Online →
Shell's Q2 profits double to $9.84bn amid Iran war
Shell reported second-quarter profits of $9.84bn, more than double the $4.26bn from the same period last year, as the US-Israel conflict with Iran disrupted global oil supplies and pushed prices higher. The oil giant's first-half earnings surged 70% as rising crude prices and trading opportunities boosted results.
23 hours ago · Joy Online →
Oil prices fall as Middle East tankers remain in transit
Brent crude fell 1.42% to $89.45 a barrel and U.S. WTI crude fell 0.66% to $83.90 a barrel on Thursday as tankers continued to move out of the Middle East despite escalating U.S.-Iran tensions. Shipping data showed 39 commodity ships passed through the Bab el-Mandeb strait into the Red Sea on Tuesday, the highest number since July 19, as traders found alternative routes around the largely blocked Strait of Hormuz.
30 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Nkaseim residents warn contractor off community mining concession
Chiefs and residents of Nkaseim in Asutifi South District have warned a road contractor to stay away from their community cooperative mining concession, alleging that some influential individuals and local leaders are attempting to dispose of portions to private interests. The community has appealed to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to investigate and ensure the concession remains under community control.
30 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Ghana's power security needs integrated gas, grid and regional trade
Ghana has stabilized electricity supply through settling US$1.47 billion in legacy energy obligations, but long-term power security depends on integrating domestic gas, electricity infrastructure, and regional power trade—three components often managed separately. The country remains exposed to fuel disruptions, aging distribution infrastructure, and revenue collection challenges that require credible regional arrangements.
30 July 2026 · The Chronicle →

Wednesday 29 July

Policy think tank requests disclosure on Damang Mine tender process
Africa Policy Lens has filed a Right to Information request with the Minerals Commission seeking full disclosure on the tender process and award of the Damang Gold Mine to Engineers & Planners, including details of the application, evaluation reports, bidding timelines, tender committee composition, and production data.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Power outage hits Ghana after system disturbance
GRIDCo reports a power system disturbance on the national transmission network at about 3:11 a.m. on July 29, 2026, caused simultaneous shutdown of power generation plants and interrupted electricity supply to parts of Ghana. The company has activated restoration procedures and begun a technical investigation into the exact cause.
29 July 2026 · The Ghanaian Times →
Energy sector fiscal risks pose threat to debt sustainability gains
Deloitte has identified the energy sector as one of Ghana's most significant fiscal risks, warning that without meaningful reforms, losses could migrate to the government's balance sheet and undermine debt sustainability progress. The firm urged the government to pursue energy sector reforms with urgency and consistency, and welcomed the Finance Minister's emphasis on strengthening public financial management controls.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gabon's president commends Ghana's mining sector reforms
During a state visit, Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema praised Ghana's mining reforms for improving transparency and governance, saying they position Ghana as an example for African countries seeking greater economic benefits from mineral resources. He highlighted the importance of local processing of natural resources, noting that both countries are pursuing policies to move beyond exporting raw materials.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ga Mantse leads investor delegation to Tema Oil Refinery
The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has led investors to the Tema Oil Refinery to explore collaboration and investment opportunities. The visit is part of efforts to promote strategic partnerships aimed at revitalizing Ghana's energy sector and attracting investments to support the refinery's long-term sustainability.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Deputy Energy Minister assures investors of stable power supply
The Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition assured investors of reliable power supply, noting that GH¢1.4 billion has been spent to clear legacy debts to Independent Power Producers, electricity access has reached about 89 per cent, and installed generation capacity has exceeded 5,300 megawatts.
29 July 2026 · The Ghanaian Times →
Ghana's power security requires integrated gas, grid and regional trade strategy
Ghana's electricity sector has stabilised following settlement of US$1.47 billion in legacy energy obligations in 2025, but long-term power security depends on integrating domestic gas supply, electricity infrastructure, and regional power trade—components historically managed separately—to address structural vulnerabilities in thermal generation, ageing distribution systems, and revenue collection.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
GRIDCo launches probe after nationwide power outage Wednesday
A disturbance on Ghana's electricity transmission system at 3:11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, caused the simultaneous tripping of several generating plants and widespread power interruptions. GRIDCo activated emergency restoration procedures and began a comprehensive technical investigation to restore electricity safely.
29 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Oil prices surge on US-Iran military escalation in Middle East
Oil prices rose more than $3 a barrel on Wednesday after joint strikes in Iraq by the United States and Saudi Arabia and the interception of Iran's ballistic missiles aimed at U.S. forces in the Middle East. Brent futures increased 3.9% to $87.39 a barrel, while U.S. WTI crude rose 3.8% to $82.31 a barrel.
29 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ghana Chamber of Mines calls for 30 percent royalties to communities
The Ghana Chamber of Mines has renewed calls for mining communities to receive at least 30 percent of the country's mineral royalties, arguing that the current allocation of about eight percent to traditional authorities and local assemblies is inadequate to meet development needs. The call emerged during an inspection of two road projects funded by Gold Fields Ghana Foundation in mining host communities.
29 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Illegal miners encroach on Obuasi Airstrip's reclaimed lands
Illegal miners have returned to 100 hectares of land around Obuasi Airstrip that AngloGold Ashanti released to the community in 2018 for agricultural projects. The Obuasi West MCE called for the area to be designated for regulated community mining to integrate miners into a legal framework, while the Ashanti Regional Reclamation Committee recovered three repaired excavators being used for illegal mining near the airport.
29 July 2026 · The Chronicle →

Tuesday 28 July

Ghana's energy reforms target debt reduction and IPP payment stability
The government is implementing power sector reforms aimed at financial sustainability and preventing debt accumulation owed to Independent Power Producers, with renegotiated IPP agreements generating more than $240 million in savings. The Deputy Energy Minister said IPPs are currently being paid 80 to 90 percent monthly, with improved revenue collections from distribution companies contributing to stronger financial discipline.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
REGSEC seizes nine excavators in Obuasi illegal mining crackdown
The Ashanti Regional Security Council and National Security impounded nine excavators in an anti-galamsey operation at the Airport Community in Obuasi Municipality. Officials from multiple agencies assessed land degradation at the site; the Deputy Regional Security Coordinator noted that three previously disabled excavators had been repaired and returned to operation by illegal miners.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Conference examines governance, critical minerals, conflict in Africa
A three-day conference organised by the Open Society Foundations is taking place in Accra to examine the nexus between governance, critical minerals, and conflict in Africa. Speakers emphasised that transparent and inclusive governance is needed for critical minerals to drive development rather than deepen inequality and instability.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Africa must add value to critical minerals, create jobs—Tanoh
Presidential Advisor Goosie Tanoh called on African countries to build industries and add value to critical minerals rather than exporting raw materials, citing the opportunity to create decent jobs and strengthen peace on the continent. The call was made at a high-level conference on Governance, Critical Minerals and Conflict in Africa organised by the Open Society Foundations in Accra.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Good governance of minerals matters more than resource wealth
The Millennium Development Authority CEO told a Accra conference on July 27 that Africa's future will be defined not by its critical mineral resources but by how wisely they are governed, and that effective governance can promote economic justice, democratic governance, and peace while preventing conflict in resource-rich communities.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ghana should seek cheaper crude oil from Nigeria
Economist Professor Williams Peprah has urged the government to explore closer energy cooperation with Nigeria to reduce Ghana's fuel import costs, citing global supply disruptions and longer shipping routes from geopolitical tensions as drivers of high petroleum prices.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold Fields defends Tarkwa Mine lease renewal bid
Gold Fields Ghana has defended its bid to renew mining leases for the Tarkwa Mine, stating it paid GH¢5.8 billion in taxes and GH¢8.8 billion on local procurement in 2025, and invested $110 million in infrastructure, while emphasizing its 30-year commitment to community engagement and responsible mining.
28 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Salma community denies endorsement of Adamus Resources mining
The chief and people of Salma in Ellembelle District have distanced themselves from claims of community endorsement of Adamus Resources Limited, reaffirming their opposition to the company's operations and citing environmental degradation, broken promises, and disrespect for community engagement.
28 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Ghana must combine enforcement with legal mining alternatives
An opinion article argues that arrest and enforcement alone cannot solve Ghana's galamsey crisis, and that the country needs a framework combining strong enforcement with structured economic inclusion and legal alternatives to illegal mining.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ghana seeks Australia's expertise in sustainable mining, renewable energy
Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa told Australia's incoming High Commissioner that Ghana wants to deepen cooperation on sustainable mining reforms and renewable energy, particularly solar expansion as part of its energy transition.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold earnings mask petroleum decline and governance risks—NRGI
The Natural Resource Governance Institute has warned that Ghana's strong gold exports and improved fiscal position mask structural weaknesses in the petroleum sector and governance gaps that require urgent reform. Ghana's oil production is projected to decline to 37.95 million barrels in 2026 from 46.35 million in 2025 due to maturing fields and reserve depletion.
28 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Gold Fields: 74% of Tarkwa mine value stays in Ghana
Gold Fields Ghana says approximately 74 cents of every dollar generated by the Tarkwa mine remains in Ghana through taxes, royalties, government dividends, employee salaries, local procurement and community investment. The company reported paying about GH¢5.8 billion to the Government in 2025 and spending approximately GH¢8.8 billion on community development.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Oil prices fall on US-Iran truce hopes, Brent at lowest since July
Oil prices extended declines as the U.S. suspended air strikes against Iran and both sides signalled openness to negotiations, with Brent crude down 1.66% to $86.89 per barrel — its lowest since July 20. The potential resolution eased concerns around regional conflict disrupting global energy flows.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold Fields cites GH¢5.8bn taxes in Tarkwa lease renewal bid
Gold Fields Ghana has defended its application to renew the Tarkwa mining lease, citing GH¢5.8 billion in taxes, royalties, dividends and statutory payments in 2025, and GH¢8.8 billion in local procurement spending, while stressing its long-standing engagement with traditional authorities and host communities.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold Fields rejects Apinto Council criticism of Tarkwa lease renewal
Gold Fields Ghana has disputed claims by the Apinto Divisional Council over the renewal of its Tarkwa mining leases, stating that the council's position does not reflect the company's longstanding partnership with traditional authorities and host communities. The company said it has operated the Tarkwa mine for over three decades and maintained regular engagement with community representatives.
28 July 2026 · Joy Online →

Monday 27 July

Illegal miners operate openly near police station in Mpohor Fiase
Illegal mining activities have become deeply entrenched in parts of Mpohor Fiase District in the Western Region, with miners operating openly near a police station and damaging vast stretches of wetlands and farmlands in multiple communities. Residents, affected farmers and traditional leaders are calling for urgent government intervention, with some miners allegedly claiming they can operate freely by paying weekly sums to security personnel and other stakeholders.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ga Mantse meets GoldBod CEO on gold governance collaboration
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II visited Ghana Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi to strengthen collaboration between traditional leadership and state institutions in managing Ghana's gold resources. The two discussed the role of traditional authorities in promoting responsible mining practices, transparency, and community participation in the gold sector.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Ghana's geology conference emphasizes African mineral research capacity
Scientists gathered in Accra for an International Association for Structural Geology and Tectonics conference argued that Africa's competitive advantage in gold, lithium and other critical minerals depends on investment in geological research, scientific training and exploration technologies. Better geological knowledge, researchers say, can improve mineral exploration, reduce mining risks and strengthen environmental management.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold Fields defends Tarkwa mining lease renewal bid
Gold Fields Ghana has defended its application to renew the Tarkwa mining lease, stating it has been a responsible partner for over three decades and remains best positioned to lead the mine's next phase. The company said approximately 74 cents of every dollar generated by the mine remains in Ghana through taxes, royalties, and community investment.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Gold Fields defends Tarkwa mine lease renewal record
Gold Fields Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to responsible mining and community partnership as discussions over renewal of its Tarkwa mining leases continue, saying approximately 74 cents of every dollar of value generated by the mine remains in Ghana through taxes, royalties, dividends, and local procurement.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Africa must avoid resource curse from critical minerals boom
The Acting CEO of the Millennium Development Authority has urged African leaders to prevent the continent's emerging critical minerals boom from becoming another resource curse, calling instead for an approach centred on good governance, value addition and inclusive development. He made the call at a High-Level Conference on Governance, Critical Minerals and Conflict in Africa in Accra, warning that Africa must decide what it wants for itself, not just what the world wants from the continent.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Apinto chiefs oppose GoldFields lease renewal in Tarkwa
The Apinto Divisional Council, traditional custodians of land where GoldFields Ghana operates in Tarkwa, has formally called on the government not to renew the company's mining lease, expiring in April 2027, arguing decades of mining have yielded little meaningful development for host communities. The council is instead advocating for a government-owned mining operation under a "shared prosperity" model.
27 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Annoh-Dompreh urges African nations to add value to critical minerals
The Chairman of the Pan-African Parliament Committee on Trade, Customs and Immigration has called on African leaders to adopt a coordinated strategy to derive greater economic value from critical mineral resources through value addition rather than exporting raw materials. He argued the continent should shift focus from articulating aspirations to implementing policies that deliver measurable benefits for its people.
27 July 2026 · The Chronicle →
Apinto Council urges government not to renew Gold Fields lease
The Apinto Divisional Council of Tarkwa has called on the government not to renew Gold Fields Ghana Limited's mining lease when it expires in April 2027, urging instead that the concession be transferred to a Ghanaian-owned company. The traditional leaders argue that such a move would maximise Ghana's mineral benefits and address inadequate development in host communities despite decades of large-scale mining activities.
27 July 2026 · The Ghanaian Times →
Oil prices fall 4% as US, Iran pause military strikes
Oil prices tumbled 4% on Monday after the U.S. and Iran paused strikes over the weekend following two weeks of attacks, raising hopes for diplomatic de-escalation and resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude fell to $92.82 a barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate to $85.29, both at their lowest levels in nearly a week.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →
Mali's gold output forecast to remain below 60 tons through 2029
Mali's industrial gold production is expected to remain below 60 metric tons annually through 2029, according to a mines ministry plan, extending a decline that followed the introduction of a revised 2023 mining code and disputes between the state and miners.
27 July 2026 · Joy Online →

Sunday 26 July

Financing critical to unlocking Africa's energy potential
Ghana's Energy and Green Transition Minister Dr John Abdulai Jinapor says financing is the biggest barrier to unlocking Africa's energy potential, noting that between 2012 and 2021, about 77 per cent of the US$345 billion mobilised by public and private financiers for African energy projects went to only ten countries including Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
26 July 2026 · Joy Online →

Saturday 25 July

Africa's energy development hampered by financing constraints, minister says
Ghana's Energy and Green Transition Minister Dr John Abdulai Jinapor says financing is the biggest barrier to unlocking Africa's energy potential, noting that between 2012 and 2021, about 77 per cent of the US$345 billion mobilized for African energy projects went to only ten countries. He called for coordinated public and private investment and regional electricity trade to develop sustainable power systems.
25 July 2026 · Joy Online →