Accra — Ghana and China have agreed on a three-point strategy to combat illegal mining, strengthen geological cooperation and attract responsible investment into Ghana’s mining sector.
The agreement was reached during a high-level meeting between Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and China’s Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Sun Shuxian, on the sidelines of the 2026 China Mining Conference in Tianjin.
The strategy focuses on strengthening oversight of Chinese mining companies operating in Ghana, expanding technical cooperation in geological surveys and mapping, and promoting responsible investment in the country’s mineral resources.
Buah said the agreement would establish a framework for ensuring that Chinese companies and nationals operating in Ghana comply with the country’s mining laws and face appropriate sanctions when involved in illegal activities.
He said Chinese nationals found engaging in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, could be subjected to enforcement measures in both Ghana and China.
«“Those who are found to have broken the law, especially those who engage in illegal mining activities, are not only punished in Ghana, but we have a pathway where the Chinese will also police their people who are working in Ghana,” Buah said.»
The minister described the agreement as a breakthrough in efforts to streamline Ghana’s mining industry, strengthen regulatory enforcement and attract responsible investment.
He added that the cooperation would enhance the capacity of Ghana’s Geological Survey Authority through technology transfer and technical support. A joint technical team will oversee the implementation of the agreement.
China’s Deputy Minister, Sun Shuxian, proposed expanded collaboration in geological mapping, technological innovation and the assessment of critical mineral resources, including gold and lithium.
He said China was prepared to support Ghana through satellite remote sensing, airborne geophysical surveys and other technologies aimed at addressing gaps in the country’s geological data.
Sun also proposed the establishment of joint laboratories, annual exchanges of technicians and joint field training to improve mineral exploration and geological research.
The Chinese delegation further offered to share its experience in rehabilitating abandoned mining sites and restoring degraded land, an area of growing concern in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining.
The agreement comes as Ghana intensifies its anti-galamsey campaign amid mounting environmental damage, including the pollution of rivers and the degradation of forest reserves.
The country is also seeking to attract investment in mineral processing, infrastructure and technology to increase the value derived from its mineral resources.
The renewed cooperation with China is expected to strengthen enforcement, improve geological knowledge and encourage more responsible participation in Ghana’s mining industry.
