The Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has officially opened the Newmont Ahafo North Mine, describing it as a powerful symbol of partnership, progress, and responsible resource management.

Speaking at the ceremony held in the Ahafo Region, the Vice President said the project marks “a new chapter in Ghana’s mining story” — one that demonstrates what government, the private sector, and local communities can achieve when they work together with mutual respect and shared purpose.

“Ghana cannot be separated from gold. Gold has shaped our history, sustained our communities, and strengthened our economy,” she stated.

“Today, we are shaping a future of sustainable development built upon this enduring legacy.”

Highlighting Ghana’s economic resilience, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted that the gold sector contributed GHS 88.1 billion to the country’s GDP last year, while gold exports reached a record US$11.2 billion in August 2025.

She emphasised that these achievements reflect growing investor confidence in Ghana’s economy, adding that “Ghana now stands as Africa’s number one gold producer and the sixth largest in the world — a remarkable testament to the hard work and resilience of our people.”

The Vice President commended Newmont Ghana Gold Limited for its nearly three-decade partnership with the government in promoting sustainable mining and community development.

She singled out the company’s support for the rehabilitation of the 46-kilometre Sunyani–Acherensua Road under the government’s “Big Push” agenda, describing it as “a shining example of the kind of collaboration Ghana seeks — grounded in shared value and accountability.”

With an initial investment exceeding US$1 billion, the Ahafo North Mine is expected to create thousands of jobs, boost local enterprises, and strengthen value chains across multiple sectors, including transport, hospitality, and services.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stressed that the project demonstrates Ghana’s stability and attractiveness as a global investment destination.

“Our collective duty is to protect and sustain such investments — ensuring that local communities and investors alike benefit, both now and in the future,” she said.

The Vice President expressed gratitude to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his pivotal role in fostering harmony among stakeholders, and praised the chiefs and people of Ahafo for their cooperation and commitment to dialogue.

“As custodians of the land, your leadership and wisdom have been crucial to making this project a reality,” she added.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to responsible mining, environmental protection, and community welfare.

She commended Mr Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, for his leadership in tackling illegal mining, and lauded Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for ongoing efforts to reclaim mined-out lands nationwide.

The Vice President concluded by calling for continued collaboration between government, business, and communities to ensure that Ghana’s mineral wealth translates into long-term prosperity.

“May this mine not only yield gold — but also hope, prosperity, and progress for all,” she said. “Together, let us build a Ghana that thrives on opportunity, equity, and innovation.”

The Newmont Ahafo North Mine is one of the largest mining investments in recent years and is expected to significantly contribute to Ghana’s economic growth and sustainable development agenda.