Deputy lands minister engages Zijin Group on responsible mining and environmental protection

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, has called on China’s Zijin Group of Companies to support Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining and promote environmentally responsible mining practices.

Speaking during a meeting with the company’s leadership on the sidelines of the 2025 China Mining Conference on October 24, the Deputy Minister said Ghana remains committed to building partnerships that deliver mutual benefits while protecting the environment.

“We want to assure Zijin that the Government of Ghana is ready to partner with you for mutual benefits,” Alhaji Sulemana said.

He urged the Chinese multinational to contribute to Ghana’s campaign to restore degraded lands and polluted water bodies, particularly through knowledge transfer and technical assistance. According to him, such support would not only strengthen Ghana’s mining sector but also enhance China’s image in the country’s renewed fight against illegal mining.

The meeting brought together top figures in the global mining industry to discuss opportunities and challenges within the sector. Alhaji Sulemana emphasized that environmental preservation must remain a central pillar of all mining partnerships.

He cited the government’s Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) as one of several initiatives designed to promote sustainable mining and build the capacity of small-scale miners.

“While Ghana continues to explore its mineral prospects, the protection of our environment remains non-negotiable,” he added, highlighting the government’s determination to balance economic growth with ecological preservation.

Representatives of the Zijin Group — one of China’s largest multinational mining corporations — reaffirmed their commitment to helping Ghana maximise its mineral potential responsibly. The company expressed readiness to collaborate on projects that align with Ghana’s sustainability goals.

The Deputy Minister later toured one of Zijin’s mining sites, where he commended the company’s innovations and contributions to the global mining ecosystem.

The engagement is expected to strengthen the relationship between Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Zijin Group, as both sides explore new avenues for cooperation in sustainable mining.

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