The new leadership of the Ghana Chamber of Mines has dismissed claims that recent changes at the top were politically motivated. Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, has emphasized the Chamber’s independence and its unwavering commitment to promoting responsible mining practices that contribute to sustainable economic growth.
The Chamber, a key institution in Ghana’s extractive sector, recently welcomed Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey as its new CEO, prompting questions about the nature and timing of the transition.
However, speaking to the media in Accra on Tuesday, June 10, Dr. Ashigbey addressed those concerns directly, insisting that the appointments were devoid of political interference.
“There is a transition from telecoms to mines. It is important to state that the two entities are all private member organizations. The Ghana Chamber of Mines is not a state entity, and so I just want to state that Ahmed has not been appointed with presidential powers from Jubilee House, nor have I been appointed,” he clarified.
He further stressed the Chamber’s collaborative approach: “We work closely with the government, policy makers, regulators but all in the interest of pushing the mining industry as a catalyst for national development so that basically is our mandate.”
Also addressing the media was the Chamber’s Chief Operating Officer, Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, who reaffirmed the Chamber’s focus on stakeholder engagement and policy reform, particularly in light of Ghana’s emerging lithium sector.
“At that point that they (Atlantic Lithium) wanted the lease rectified, the price was around $3000 but now the price is around $600. They were looking at investing a 100 million now they have to invest about 300 million so we will continue to engage so we do it as quickly as we can,” he said.
The leadership of the Chamber added that it remains focused on fostering a transparent, growth-oriented mining environment — one that ensures Ghana reaps maximum value from its mineral wealth while upholding international standards.
