Ghana Advances Mining Diversification with Over 90 Active Exploration Projects

Wed Feb 18 2026

Ghana currently hosts more than 90 active exploration projects targeting gold and manganese, reinforcing its strategy to diversify the mining sector while consolidating its position as Africa’s largest gold producer and the world’s sixth-largest.

The figure was announced in Cape Town on Wednesday by Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.

Over the past two years, Ghana has attracted more than $20 billion in investment toward mineral exploration and production, underscoring sustained investor confidence in the country’s mining industry.

Driving diversification and critical minerals growth

While gold remains central to Ghana’s mining industry – earning it the historic title of “Gold Coast” – the government is accelerating efforts to diversify into other minerals critical to the global energy transition.

“In addition to gold, Ghana holds significant deposits of diamonds, bauxite, manganese, iron ore, cobalt and nickel,” Buah said. “We are looking forward to further discoveries of critical minerals that will support the global energy transition.”

Ghana also has 110 active licenses for clay, limestone and high-grade iron ore projects, signaling growing momentum across industrial minerals and construction inputs.

Regulatory reforms to attract capital

To strengthen its investment appeal, Ghana has implemented a series of regulatory reforms, including the January 2026 removal of a 15% VAT on mining exploration activities to incentivize greenfield investment.

“We offer political stability and regulatory certainty. Ghana believes investors should earn competitive returns on their investments,” Buah said.

He also highlighted the presence of major international mining companies and a well-developed services ecosystem as key advantages. Five of the world’s top 10 mining companies operate in Ghana, alongside more than 200 engineering and mining services firms active across the value chain, according to Buah.

“These companies are injecting significant capital and are open to new partnerships,” Buah added. “We seek more than just capital – we want ethical, innovative partnerships that recognize mining is not only about extraction but about strengthening the entire ecosystem.”

Economic growth and regional positioning

Benjamin Anani Quashie, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, noted that Ghana’s projected 5.4% economic growth in 2026 further enhances its attractiveness to investors.

As host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, Ghana is positioning itself as a regional hub for trade and investment. The Ghana Investment Promotion Act, Quashie added, provides an enabling framework for both local and international investors.

Source: https://energycapitalpower.com/