Ghana's Mining Revenue Surges 40% as Women Push for Greater Sector Inclusion
Ghana's mining sector is experiencing unprecedented growth with mineral royalties jumping 40% in 2025, while industry leaders champion transformative gender inclusion initiatives that promise to unlock even greater economic potential.
The Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) reported remarkable revenue increases across all mining categories during the first three quarters of 2025, with large-scale gold mining generating US$291.87 million in royalties, a substantial 40.18% increase from 2024.
Record-Breaking Mining Performance Drives Economic Growth
The impressive financial results showcase Ghana's strengthening position as a global mining destination. Mid-tier gold operations contributed GH₵59.44 million, marking a 46.38% rise, while manganese revenues experienced an extraordinary 170% surge to US$12.75 million.
Even smaller sectors demonstrated robust growth, with quarry industry revenues reaching GH₵13.15 million (13.12% growth) and sand mining generating GH₵433,406.41 (21.48% increase). These figures reflect enhanced regulatory compliance and growing investor confidence in Ghana's mineral sector.
Innovation Through Inclusion: Unlocking Women's Economic Potential
MIIF CEO Justina Nelson emphasized that greater gender inclusion represents a strategic economic opportunity, not just a social imperative. Speaking at Women in Mining Ghana's 10th anniversary celebration, she highlighted how empowering women can strengthen productivity, innovation, and governance across the mining value chain.
Current data reveals significant opportunities for growth. Women represent only 9-10% of the large-scale mining workforce, 14% of senior positions, and 21% of professional roles. These gaps represent untapped human capital that could drive even greater economic returns.
Strategic Investment in Future Talent
MIIF's Women from Mining Communities (WoMCom) Scholarship Scheme exemplifies innovative approaches to building Ghana's mining talent pipeline. Over 90 young women from the University of Mines and Technology have already benefited from this transformative initiative.
The program will expand to universities in middle belt and northern Ghana in 2026, creating pathways for brilliant but financially disadvantaged female STEM students. This strategic investment ensures mining communities participate directly in Ghana's mineral-driven transformation.
Corporate Partnership Opportunities
Nelson called on corporate Ghana to embrace gender inclusion as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, emphasizing the business case for diversity. Companies partnering with MIIF on women's empowerment programs can access Ghana's growing pool of skilled female mining professionals while contributing to sustainable sector growth.
The convergence of record mining revenues and strategic inclusion initiatives positions Ghana as a progressive mining destination that attracts international investment while maximizing local talent potential.
As Ghana's mining sector continues its impressive growth trajectory, the integration of women at all levels promises to unlock even greater economic value while strengthening the country's position as Africa's mining innovation leader.