Ghana’s rich mineral wealth is a cornerstone of its economy, yet a significant portion of its potential remains untapped. While gold and cocoa consistently feature in export figures, other valuable resources are routinely overlooked, leaving millions in potential revenue on the table. This oversight is particularly evident in the case of manganese, a critical element in various industries, and its associated byproducts.
The Nsuta manganese mine in Ghana’s Western Region, operated by the Ghana Manganese Company Limited (GMCL), sprawls across an impressive 175 square kilometres. However, only a meager 3% of the estimated reserves has been exploited so far.
This underutilisation represents a massive missed opportunity for economic diversification and growth. The situation echoes a similar concern highlighted in a previous article concerning the export of raw bauxite, resulting in the loss of valuable byproducts like titanium. The pattern suggests a systemic failure to fully leverage Ghana’s mineral endowments.
Manganese itself is a crucial element in steel production, contributing significantly to its strength and durability. The demand for manganese is consistently high, making its responsible extraction and processing a vital undertaking.
But Ghana’s potential gains extend far beyond the manganese ore itself. Geological analysis consistently indicate a strong correlation between manganese deposits and silicon, another valuable element with diverse applications.
Silicon, a rare earth element, is a cornerstone of modern technology. Its uses are widespread, from the semiconductor industry, where it’s essential for creating microchips and integrated circuits which are used in home appliances and vehicle electronics, airplane electronics, mobile phones, laptops, etc. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry, where it plays a role in the production of certain medicines.
The glass industry also relies heavily on silicon for its crucial role in glass manufacturing, contributing to transparency, strength, and durability. The presence of silicon alongside manganese represents a potential goldmine, quite literally, that is currently being ignored.
The current practice of exporting raw manganese ore to be refined elsewhere deprives Ghana of the opportunity to capture the significant economic value generated by silicon extraction.
Establishing local refining capabilities would not only secure a greater share of the manganese market but would also unlock the lucrative silicon byproduct market. This dual approach would significantly boost Ghana’s GDP, generate employment opportunities across various sectors, and cultivate a more robust and diversified economy.
The potential benefits extend beyond financial gains. Investing in local manganese and silicon refining would spur technological advancement, fostering the development of skilled labour and expertise within Ghana.
This would foster a self-sufficient industrial base, reducing reliance on external processing and enhancing national resilience in the face of global market fluctuations. Furthermore, responsible and sustainable mining practices, coupled with efficient refining processes, would contribute to environmental protection and promote long-term economic stability.
In conclusion, the underutilisation of Ghana’s manganese reserves, and the associated loss of valuable byproducts like silicon, represents a significant impediment to the country’s economic progress.
A strategic shift towards local refining, coupled with investment in technological infrastructure and skilled workforce development, is crucial to unlocking the full potential of this valuable resource and ensuring a brighter economic future for Ghana. This strategic move would not only boost the economy but also position Ghana as a leader in the global rare earth element market. The time for action is now.
Anthony Obeng Afrane
