Ghana's Mining Wealth: Why Are Mining Communities Still Underdeveloped?

Ghana's Mining Boom: A Development Paradox? Ghana's economy thrives on mining, yet many mining communities remain underdeveloped. Ahmed Dasana Nantomgah, Acting CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, points to government neglect as the primary cause, highlighting the discrepancy between substantial mineral royalties and the lack of development projects in these areas. "But for mining, Ghana wouldn’t be where it is today; the country is being developed on the back of mining," he stated, emphasizing the need for a law to regulate the use of mineral royalties for community development. This lack of investment in infrastructure and social services fuels discontent and raises questions about equitable resource distribution. The interview calls for transparency and accountability, urging the government to address this imbalance and ensure the benefits of mining reach the communities that bear its impact. A potential solution involves legislation to channel mineral royalties towards specific development projects, ensuring improved living conditions and infrastructure in mining communities.