The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Justina Nelson, has called for stronger partnerships with foreign investors to help Ghana process more of its minerals locally instead of exporting them in their raw form.

She said Ghana has large deposits of minerals, including bauxite, iron ore, manganese and graphite, which could attract investment, support local industries and create jobs.

Speaking at the 2026 China (Guangxi)–ASEAN Mining Cooperation Conference in China on November 6, she stated that international partnerships would be important in helping Ghana make better use of its mineral resources.

The conference, held under the theme “Empowering China-ASEAN Mining Cooperation, Innovation and Development,” brought together government officials, investors and mining industry players to discuss opportunities for cooperation.

She explained that Ghana has an estimated 920 million tonnes of bauxite resources, while iron ore deposits at Sheini Hills are estimated at more than 1.7 billion tonnes.

She added that the country also has about 5.2 million tonnes of manganese resources, alongside opportunities for graphite exploration and mineral development within the Cape Coast lithium belt.

According to her, investors could explore opportunities in mining projects, partnerships with Ghanaian mining companies and the local production of equipment and materials used in mining operations.

She also highlighted investment opportunities in alumina refining, iron and steel production, smelting technology and the processing of manganese for battery manufacturing.

One major opportunity, she noted, is the development of a local iron and steel industry, which could reduce Ghana's dependence on imported steel products.

Justina Nelson said producing iron and steel locally could potentially replace about US$528 million worth of annual imports, based on 2023 figures.

She explained that attracting investment into mineral processing would help Ghana earn more from its natural resources while supporting industrial growth and employment.

Enabling environment

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Alhaji Yusif Sulemana assured investors that Ghana was committed to creating a favourable environment for businesses interested in the mining sector.

He encouraged Chinese companies to explore opportunities in Ghana's mining and mineral processing industries, adding that the government was ready to support partnerships that would benefit both investors and the country.

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