The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called for a more balanced national assessment of Ghana's mining industry. He stated that the sector's economic contribution must be considered alongside its impact on communities, the environment, and future generations.
Mr. Dwumfour made these remarks at the National Mining Dialogue on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. He emphasized that journalists have a crucial role in providing the public with a comprehensive picture of the mining sector. This includes reporting both its achievements and its shortcomings, moving beyond just revenue and investment figures.
Ghana's mining sector is a significant contributor to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and foreign exchange earnings. Gold alone accounts for over 90% of Ghana's mineral exports, making the country one of Africa's largest gold producers. However, the industry has also faced criticism for environmental degradation, particularly illegal mining activities known as 'galamsey', and social displacement in host communities. This dialogue reflects a growing national conversation about maximizing economic benefits while mitigating adverse effects.
“As journalists, we must be fair to report what is working, just as we must be courageous enough to report what is not working,” Mr. Dwumfour stated. He cautioned against evaluating the mining industry solely through economic indicators like revenue, foreign exchange earnings, investment, and employment. A meaningful assessment, he argued, must also examine who benefits, who bears the costs, and what happens to communities and the environment after mineral resources are exhausted.
This call for a holistic view implies a shift in how the nation measures the true value of its mineral wealth. Decision-makers will need to consider long-term sustainability and social equity alongside short-term economic gains. The dialogue's focus on responsible mining could influence future policy decisions regarding environmental regulations, community development agreements, and revenue sharing mechanisms. Investors and mining companies will likely face increased scrutiny regarding their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices in Ghana.
Mr. Dwumfour stressed that abandoning mining is neither realistic nor responsible, given its importance to Ghana's economy and substantial mineral resources. Instead, he posed the central question: what kind of mining is Ghana prepared to accept? He outlined an acceptable model for Ghana, suggesting mining should create economic value while simultaneously respecting communities and meeting environmental standards. This model requires strict compliance with environmental requirements and a clear contribution to national development without leaving economic debts for future generations. The ongoing discussions at events like the National Mining Dialogue are vital for shaping a sustainable future for Ghana's resource-rich economy. This includes ensuring that the benefits of mining are broadly shared and that environmental stewardship remains a top priority. The GJA's stance underscores the media's role in holding stakeholders accountable and fostering informed public discourse on critical national issues.