Joseph Nelson (2nd from left)
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has expressed support for the Ghana Manganese Company’s (GMC) plans to establish a manganese refinery in Ghana, describing the proposed project as an opportunity to increase local mineral processing and create skilled jobs.
Mr Nelson made the remarks during a working visit to GMC in Tarkwa as part of his familiarisation tour of key institutions and industries in the Western Region.
According to the Minister, the refinery could help broaden Ghana’s tax base, create skilled employment and reduce pressure on the country’s roads by limiting the need for heavy-duty haulage of manganese.
He also highlighted ongoing discussions on the revival of railway services and GMC’s collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) to explore a concession at the Port of Takoradi.
Mr Nelson said a functional rail system, together with increased activity at the Takoradi Port, could create economic opportunities along the corridor and strengthen the Western Region’s role as an industrial and logistics hub.
He said the Regional Coordinating Council would continue to work with GMC and other companies within the mining enclave to address legitimate investment concerns and facilitate collaboration with relevant national institutions.
The Minister, however, stressed that industrial development must be accompanied by responsible mining, environmental sustainability and respect for the interests of host communities.
He said stronger cooperation among government, industry and communities would be necessary to translate the region’s economic potential into jobs, stronger local economies and sustainable development.
GMC has operated in the Western Region for several years and remains one of the key mining companies in the Tarkwa area.
