Ghana’s mining sector must move beyond simply publicising its financial contributions and instead demonstrate how these funds genuinely improve lives. Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, made this clear call. He spoke at the 2026 PR, Environment and Sustainability Seminar in Kumasi.
Mr. Nantogmah stressed that a better-informed public now demands evidence. People are less likely to accept corporate claims without proof, especially with widespread misinformation. He urged industry communicators to shift from mere publicity to tangible proof of impact. This means showing how mining benefits communities directly.
The mining industry made significant contributions to Ghana’s economy in 2025. It generated over GHS 24.2 billion in fiscal revenue. The sector also spent roughly US$7 billion domestically. This included about US$4.2 billion paid to local suppliers. Furthermore, Chamber member companies invested US$88.6 million directly in communities. These figures highlight the sector's substantial economic footprint.
However, Mr. Nantogmah questioned if these large numbers translate into visible improvements on the ground. He asked, “If we go into the mining communities, are we going to see that impact?” This query underscores the gap between reported financial contributions and perceived community benefits. The public expects to see direct results from such significant economic activity.
The sector's real contribution should be evident in several key areas. These include stronger local businesses and improved livelihoods. Sustainable employment and better infrastructure are also crucial. Communities must experience these benefits firsthand. This approach ensures that the economic gains are not just theoretical but practical.
Mr. Nantogmah linked lasting impact to predictable government policies. He also emphasized increased investment and stronger domestic value retention. High gold prices, he argued, should attract more exploration funding. This would increase output and extend the operating lives of existing mines. The focus should not solely be on securing more revenue from current operations.
He further advocated for Ghana to progress from local procurement to domestic manufacturing. Currently, many goods bought locally still rely heavily on imported components. This means little value remains within the country. Shifting to manufacturing would create more local jobs and retain more wealth. This move would strengthen the domestic economy significantly.
Donald Gwira, Vice President of the Institute of Public Relations Ghana, supported this emphasis on evidence. He spoke as a guest speaker at the seminar. Mr. Gwira distinguished between reputation and trust. He stated, “Reputation is communicated, but trust is earned.” Trust grows when an organisation’s actions match its statements consistently.
Mr. Gwira called for public relations to become a core part of strategic management. Communications professionals should participate early in organisational decisions. This allows them to detect emerging issues and understand stakeholder expectations. They can then help shape responses proactively, rather than reacting to controversies. This proactive approach builds stronger relationships with communities.
The seminar delivered a clear message to the mining industry. Under increasing public scrutiny, credibility depends on more than just financial size. It also relies on demonstrating concrete, measurable results. The sector must prove its positive impact on the lives of Ghanaians. This shift is vital for maintaining social license to operate and ensuring long-term sustainability.