Australia’s mining investments in West Africa have surged to an estimated $30 billion, with Ghana emerging as a crucial player in this economic growth. This achievement is the result of long-standing relations between the two nations, especially in the mining sector.
The significance of Ghana’s contribution to Australia’s mining portfolio was highlighted during a meeting between Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Berenice Owen-Jones, last Tuesday. The meeting, which also celebrated the Vice-President’s historic rise to office, focused on a range of bilateral issues, including the ongoing collaboration in the mining industry, agricultural development, and research partnerships.
While mining was a central topic, the discussions also covered broader international concerns such as gender equality, climate action, and peacekeeping. Ms Owen-Jones reiterated Australia’s long-term commitment to supporting Ghanaian communities through the Direct Aid Programme (DAP), which has uplifted women, children, and marginalized groups for years.
The High Commissioner expressed excitement about the upcoming Atlantic Lithium project in Ghana, which awaits parliamentary approval for its mining licence. The project is expected to create over 900 direct jobs for Ghanaians, thereby boosting local economies and strengthening the economic ties between both countries.
In addition, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) is set to expand into Ghana, aiming to improve food security and climate resilience. Ms Owen-Jones also underscored Australia’s willingness to assist Ghana in implementing its 24-hour economy model, drawing from its successful experience in cities like Sydney.
Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang highlighted Australia’s expertise in mining and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of responsible resource extraction in line with Ghana’s long-term economic goals. She welcomed the possibility of knowledge transfer and deepened cooperation between the two nations, particularly in areas of environmental protection and community development.
The Vice-President also applauded Australia’s initiative to support Ghana’s 13 agricultural research institutes, which she said would advance mechanised farming and strengthen agricultural value chains. This partnership, she noted, could unlock solutions to food production challenges and rural development.
The Vice President Opoku-Agyemang reiterated the transformative power of empowering women, stressing the need for further initiatives in education and women’s empowerment, areas where she called for increased support from Australia.
