Ghana Chamber of Mines refutes political interference in leadership appointments – Nsemkeka
The Ghana Chamber of Mines has firmly denied claims that recent leadership changes within the organisation were politically influenced, affirming its independence and dedication to ethical and sustainable mining practices.
Ing. Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, addressed the matter during a media briefing in Accra on Tuesday, 10 June. He dismissed speculation surrounding the nature and timing of the transition, stating that the appointments were entirely devoid of political input.
“There is a transition from telecoms to mining, but it is important to note that both entities are private member organisations,” Dr Ashigbey explained. “The Ghana Chamber of Mines is not a state institution. Ahmed [Dasana Nantogmah] has not been appointed with presidential powers from Jubilee House, and neither have I.”
He reiterated the Chamber’s mission to collaborate with stakeholders in advancing the mining sector: “We work closely with government, policymakers, and regulators — but purely in the interest of developing mining as a driver for national development. That is our core mandate.”
The Chamber’s Chief Operating Officer, Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, also addressed the media, particularly on issues related to Ghana’s budding lithium industry. He cited Atlantic Lithium’s investment adjustments as an example of market volatility requiring proactive stakeholder engagement.
“At the time they sought the lease rectification, lithium prices were around $3,000. Now it’s closer to $600. They had planned to invest $100 million, but now projections are closer to $300 million. We will continue to engage with all parties to expedite processes,” he said.
The leadership stressed the Chamber’s commitment to transparency, stakeholder inclusion, and policy reform aimed at ensuring Ghana maximises the benefits of its mineral resources while upholding global best practices.
The Ghana Chamber of Mines remains a pivotal institution in shaping the country’s extractive sector and positioning it as a cornerstone of sustainable economic transformation.