Ghana Orders Major Miners to Shift Operations to Local Firms by December 2026

Ghana has directed major international mining companies to transition their operations to locally owned contractors by December 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening domestic participation in the sector.

The directive, issued by the Minerals Commission, applies to global mining firms including Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, and Zijin Mining. Companies that fail to comply risk facing sanctions, including potential shutdowns.

Under revised local content regulations introduced in January 2025, surface mining operations must be carried out by fully Ghanaian-owned firms, while underground mining requires at least 50% local ownership.

While most large mining companies in Ghana have already adopted contract mining models, the three firms are among the last to continue operating mines using in-house teams. The new rules are part of broader efforts across Africa to increase revenue from natural resources amid rising global commodity prices.

The directive was communicated through official letters sent to the companies in late 2025 and early 2026, setting a firm compliance deadline. Requests for extensions—particularly from Newmont—have been rejected by regulators.

Newmont, which operates the Ahafo North and South mines, had sought to delay full compliance until 2027, citing regulatory and governance obligations tied to its listed status. However, authorities pointed out that other listed companies, including Gold Fields, have already complied with the requirements.

Meanwhile, Zijin Mining stated that its Ghana operations are actively engaging with regulators and preparing for the transition by developing tenders and technical frameworks to support contract mining.

The policy aims to build capacity within Ghana’s mining services sector and retain more economic value within the country. Officials highlighted the growing capabilities of local firms such as Rocksure International and Engineers & Planners, which are expected to play a larger role under the new framework.

Authorities have made it clear that non-compliance will carry serious consequences. Initial penalties may include substantial fines, while continued failure to meet the requirements could result in the suspension or closure of mining operations.

The move underscores Ghana’s broader push to strengthen local content policies, enhance skills development, and ensure that more benefits from its mining sector are retained within the domestic economy.