China Pledges Support for Sustainable Mining in Ghana

The Chinese government has pledged its full support to Ghana in developing a comprehensive green and sustainable mining industry, leveraging its technological and financial capabilities.

Speaking at a media workshop in the Eastern Region on Thursday, December 12, 2025, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa, emphasized that future collaboration will prioritize environmental protection, technology transfer, and responsible mineral resource management. This, he stated, will ensure an “effective synergy between resource exploitation and environmental protection.”

The commitment stems from a strategic partnership solidified during a meeting between President Xi Jinping and President Mahama in October, aimed at transforming Ghana’s natural resources into sustainable drivers of development. “China is willing to fully leverage its advantages to conduct full-chain cooperation with Ghana in the field of mineral resources, including geological surveys, mineral exploration, resource development and environmental protection,” Ambassador Defa said.

He further stressed that Chinese enterprises are being directed to operate responsibly, adhering to Ghanaian laws and regulations. “China always urges enterprises to operate in accordance with the laws and regulations to severely crack down on illegal activities and promote ecological restoration and greening of mining areas, and work with Ghana to jointly promote the green and sustainable development of Ghana’s mining industry,” the Ambassador explained.

Ambassador Defa highlighted the experience China can share to help Ghana “improve its technology, upgrade its mining equipment, control costs, increase revenue, and enhance the added value of minerals.”

Several Chinese mining companies are already demonstrating responsible practices, serving as benchmarks for the industry. Shandong Gold (Kadino Namadini), for instance, employs approximately 1,600 local Ghanaians – representing 94% of its contractor workforce – and has invested around US$2 million in community development projects, including improvements to medical facilities, education, and infrastructure. They also constructed a 25-kilometre public road connecting over 10 communities.

Chifeng Gold (Wassa) has established the Golden Star Community Development Fund, investing approximately US$4.5 million in local infrastructure such as schools, clinics, and access to clean drinking water. The company is also pioneering a partnership to establish Golden Star Oil Palm Plantations Limited on former mining land, with plans for a processing plant to boost palm oil production and farmer incomes.

This deepened cooperation is being facilitated through several initiatives. The Association of China-Ghana Mining, established in April 2025, aims to improve livelihoods. Additionally, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, and his Deputy, George Mireku Duker, recently visited Chinese mining giants like Tianyuan Manganese Industry and Zijin Mining to study their sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

The Ambassador noted that the 4th Plenary Session of the Communist Party of China Central Committee adopted recommendations from the 15th Five-Year Plan, which prioritizes strengthening strategic alignment with Belt and Road partner countries like Ghana, opening doors for mutually beneficial cooperation.

Ambassador Defa reaffirmed the Chinese Embassy’s commitment to bridging practical cooperation and encouraging further Chinese investment to support Ghana’s economic and social progress.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE