The newly appointed leadership of the Ghana Chamber of Mines has dismissed allegations that recent changes at the top were influenced by political interests.
Speaking to the media in Accra, the Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, reaffirmed the institution’s independence and its focus on promoting responsible and sustainable mining in Ghana.
“The Ghana Chamber of Mines is not a state institution, Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah has not been appointed with presidential authority from Jubilee House, and neither have I. Both the Chamber and the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, from which I transitioned, are private member organizations,” Dr. Ashigbey stated.
He emphasized that the Chamber works collaboratively with government agencies, regulators, and policymakers — but always in pursuit of national development through mining sector growth.
“Our mandate is to advance mining as a catalyst for economic transformation,” he added.
The leadership transition, which brought in Dr. Ashigbey as CEO and Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah as Chief Operating Officer, had sparked speculation about political motivations behind the appointments.
The Chamber’s clear denial of those claims aims to refocus attention on its strategic goals for the sector.
Speaking on the Chamber’s priorities, Mr. Nantogmah highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen stakeholder engagement and support reforms in Ghana’s rapidly evolving mineral landscape, particularly in the lithium sector.
Referring to the Atlantic Lithium project, he explained: “When the company initially sought lease rectification, lithium prices were around $3,000 per tonne.
Now, prices have dropped to about $600. Their investment plans have shifted from $100 million to $300 million. We’re committed to continued engagement to fast-track the process and ensure the best outcomes.”
The Chamber’s leadership reiterated its commitment to a transparent and growth-driven mining sector , one that delivers long-term value for Ghanaians while aligning with global best practices.
