Gov’t to Introduce Comprehensive Mineral Royalties Framework – Armah-Kofi Buah
New framework aims to ensure fairness, long-term stability, and investor confidence across Ghana’s mineral sector
- Government to introduce a comprehensive mineral royalties framework covering all minerals, including lithium
- Reform aims to address limitations of the fixed royalty system and adapt to global market changes
- Framework seeks to protect national interests, ensure fairness, and maintain investor confidence
The government of Ghana is set to introduce a new legal framework to establish a comprehensive and long-term approach to mineral royalties across all sectors, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, December 3, Mr. Buah said the guideline, developed in collaboration with the Attorney-General, will cover not only lithium but all mineral resources in the country.
“We’ve worked closely with the Attorney General, and once Cabinet approval is secured, we’ll present the instrument to Parliament. It will provide a complete guideline on royalties for all minerals, not just lithium,” he stated.
The Minister explained that the updated framework is necessary to address lessons learned in recent years and to ensure that Ghana’s mineral revenue system remains fair, competitive, and adaptive to global market changes.
“The recent downturn in global lithium prices has put several projects worldwide on hold, including our own. This affects planned jobs and the local economy,” he noted. “These market pressures make it necessary to review fiscal terms to protect national interest and sustain investment viability.”
Mr. Buah added that traditional leaders, lawmakers, and stakeholders have urged the government to ensure the continuation of Ghana’s lithium projects due to their significance for the Central Region and the country as a whole.
“The President asked: How do we move forward so the project continues while ensuring Ghana benefits? This consensus-driven approach guides our actions,” he said.
He stressed that recent global market developments have highlighted the limitations of Ghana’s fixed royalty system, making the reform essential. The new instrument, he assured, will provide clarity, fairness, and long-term stability for both the country and investors in the mineral sector.
