The former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, has emphasized the importance of ethical leadership, inclusive development, and stronger community partnerships within Ghana’s extractive sector.
She made this statement during a mentorship session at the Africa Media Extractives Fellowship training held in Accra on Wednesday, November 26.
In her discussion titled “The Human Face of Mining: Leadership, Ethics, and Community Relations in Ghana’s Extractive Sector,” Rev. Dr. Aryee highlighted that mining transcends mere mineral extraction; it is vital to Ghana’s economy and overall national development.
“I would assert that mining encompasses more than just minerals. It is fundamental to Ghana’s economy and the welfare of the entire community. However, ethical leadership and inclusive development are crucial, necessitating a balance between economic advancement and social as well as environmental responsibilities,” she stated.
Proudly acknowledging the contributions of women in the industry, she remarked that women play a crucial role in fostering ethical practices and enhancing the relationships between mining firms and the communities they serve.
She stressed that mining companies should extend their efforts beyond corporate social responsibility to establish substantial partnerships with the communities that host them.
“I believe there is a specific partnership that mining companies should cultivate with their communities. What, then, is the dual mandate of mining? Statistics indicate that mining accounts for over eight percent of Ghana’s GDP, equating to approximately 6.8 billion Ghana cedis in the second quarter of 2025, and it provides thousands of jobs, even with the advent of new technologies,” she elaborated.
Nevertheless, Rev. Dr. Aryee underscored the necessity of reconciling mining operations with land rights and the protection of livelihoods, pointing out that mining often competes with other land uses and can disrupt local livelihoods.
She recalled advising mining companies to aim for a positive legacy.
“During my tenure, I often conveyed to the mining companies that it would be most beneficial for someone from the community to express that, had this mining company not been present, these facilities, job opportunities, livelihood programs, and improved education — all these advantages would not have materialized,” she stated.
She emphasized that mining companies have a responsibility to enhance the communities they engage with, rather than simply extracting resources.
“It is not merely about leaving financial contributions for business purposes, but rather understanding the duty to ensure that whatever you influence is improved compared to its state prior to your involvement. This is the mindset we must adopt,” she continued.
Rev. Dr. Aryee further urged the government to explicitly articulate the objectives of mining in Ghana, asserting that financial gain alone cannot warrant the environmental and social repercussions.
“I have frequently inquired what Ghana’s motivation for mining? What is the purpose? If the sole justification for mining is profit, we have missed the point. Mining carries detrimental effects. As I mentioned, there will invariably be a void left behind. However, we are aware of the potential uses for such voids,” she remarked.
She also highlighted the necessity for national mining policies and regulations to embody a clear, long-term vision for the industry.
“Thus, in light of all that transpires, a nation must determine its reasons for mining and its intended direction for the mining sector. This is the most prudent approach. Therefore, any legislation enacted must take this perspective into account,” she concluded.
