- Ghana has ordered Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, and Zijin Mining to shift mining operations to local contractors by December 2026
- The directive is part of Ghana’s push to increase local participation in its gold mining industry and strengthen control over natural resources.
- New policies require surface mining to be done by fully Ghanaian-owned companies and at least 50% local ownership for underground mining.
- Most major firms have already complied, but these three companies are among the few still using their own workforce.
The directive from Ghana’s Minerals Commission marks the latest step in the country’s push to deepen local participation in its lucrative gold sector, as African governments tighten control over natural resources amid elevated global commodity prices.
The move builds on reforms introduced in January 2025, requiring mining firms in Africa’s top gold producing nation to adopt contract mining models that prioritise Ghanaian ownership.
Under the policy, surface mining must be conducted by companies fully owned by Ghanaian citizens, while underground operations must have at least 50% local ownership.While most major operators have already transitioned, Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, and Zijin Mining remain among the last firms still operating with their own workforce, according to an exclusive report by Reuters.
Ghana’s stance mirrors a broader continental trend. Countries such as Mali have also tightened mining regulations, with Bamako recently resolving a prolonged dispute with Barrick Gold over the enforcement of a new mining code.
Damang decision signals policy shift
A gold mine run by Chinese at Obuasi, more than two hours’ drive from Kumasi, the second largest city in Ghana. [Photo by Amy Nip/South China Morning Post via Getty Images]
The policy direction became clearer earlier this month when Engineers & Planners, a Ghanaian firm led by businessman Ibrahim Mahama, took over operations at the Damang gold mine after the government rejected a lease renewal application from Gold Fields.
The decision marked a departure from past practice, where long-standing foreign operators typically secured renewals. Gold Fields had flagged plans to divest the asset, citing declining reserves and a limited mine life.
In a March 24 notice, Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah stated that only firms “100% owned by Ghanaian citizens” would be eligible to apply for the asset, effectively shutting out foreign bidders.
Letters sent to the three companies in October and January outlined the December 2026 compliance deadline, after the firms requested more time to transition. The regulator warned that failure to comply could trigger sanctions.
Zijin’s Ghana unit said it has been engaging authorities since late 2025 to align with the rules, including preparing tenders and technical frameworks for the shift.
The outcome of the directive could reshape Ghana’s mining landscape, reinforcing state efforts to retain more value from Africa’s top gold producer.
