Western Rod and Wire Limited has called for greater recognition of existing local manufacturers in Ghana's aluminium sector. The company's statement emphasizes its two decades of local production. This comes as Ghana intensifies efforts to develop an integrated aluminium industry.
The company stated that discussions about Ghana's aluminium value chain must acknowledge businesses already invested in local production. Specifically, it highlighted its role in manufacturing aluminium wire rod for the electrical cable industry. Western Rod and Wire has supplied the local market since 2005, reducing dependence on imported rods.
This development fits into Ghana's broader push for industrialisation and local value addition. The Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) aims to move beyond bauxite mining. Its master plan includes refining, smelting, and downstream manufacturing. GIADEC projects require about GHS 56 billion ($4 billion) for expansion, including the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO).
Western Rod and Wire issued its statement on Tuesday, August 24, 2026. It welcomed new investments in the aluminium industry. However, it stressed that Ghana already possesses local capacity for producing aluminium wire rod. The company confirmed its production capacity meets the needs of Ghana's cable manufacturing industry. It continues to supply local cable manufacturers.
The company's clarification follows a report on VALCO's new continuous casting and rolling mill. VALCO recently began producing aluminium rods for local cable manufacturers. It is also testing products for export markets. VALCO's Finance Director, Sepenu Agbetsise, indicated this could reduce the need for imported aluminium rods. This creates a new dimension in Ghana's downstream aluminium market, alongside Western Rod & Wire's established presence.
GIADEC's plans include expanding existing mining operations and establishing alumina refineries. It also aims to modernise VALCO. The corporation seeks to create conditions for a stronger downstream manufacturing sector. Ghana currently imports up to 45,000 tonnes of aluminium products annually. This presents significant opportunities for local manufacturers to replace imports.
Western Rod and Wire argues that new capacity should not overshadow existing private-sector contributions. The company is listed by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) as a manufacturer of EC-grade aluminium rods. Its products meet international standards like BS, IEC, NFC, DIN, and ASTM. GEPA also lists export destinations including Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, Cameroon, and Mali.
The company's presence in Ghana's downstream aluminium sector predates the current integrated industry push. A government planning document from 2015 recorded discussions between VALCO and Western Rod & Wire for a potential joint venture. This history underscores Western Rod and Wire's long-standing commitment to the sector. The company believes industry development should expand an existing ecosystem, not start from scratch.
Western Rod and Wire's operations have contributed to local industrial employment and skills development. They have also supported import substitution over many years. The company remains committed to Ghana's industrialisation agenda. Decision-makers will need to balance new investments with supporting established local players. This ensures a comprehensive and sustainable growth path for Ghana's aluminium industry.