President of Zijin Mining Group, Lin Hongfu, praised Ghana’s business environment and government support during a meeting with Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah on Monday, September 7, 2026, as part of the Minister’s working visit to China.
Mr Lin said the cooperation he received from the Ghanaian government was key to acquiring and operating the former Newmont Golden Ridge Gold Mine at Akyem. He highlighted that Zijin has operated in Ghana for more than a year without significant obstruction and has achieved what he described as significant results.
He noted that Zijin redesigned its mining structure after the acquisition, incorporating new technologies and management practices to improve performance. The company’s progress, he said, is partly due to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources’ support, especially Minister Armah‑Kofi Buah’s facilitation of the acquisition and commencement of operations.
During the visit, Mr Lin hosted the Minister at the Zijin mining site in China, describing it as the birthplace of the company’s development. He outlined that over the past three decades Zijin has invested heavily in technology, finance, and human capital, establishing an in‑house research institute, a global supply chain, and partnerships with leading Chinese universities to recruit skilled graduates.
Environmental sustainability was highlighted as central to Zijin’s operations. Mr Lin said the company plans to equip all its mines with pure electric vehicles to cut down emissions and is already among the global mining firms with significant electric vehicle deployment.
Mr Lin stated that Zijin’s approach to Ghana would mirror its global strategy, focusing on local employment, technology transfer, and environmental stewardship. He added that the company has revised its mining design and reclamation plans based on the experience of its Ghanaian team and the country’s potential.
In response, Minister Armah‑Kofi Buah reiterated Ghana’s openness to investors who comply with the country’s laws and regulations, respect the mining environment, and contribute to local empowerment, infrastructure development, and supply‑chain strengthening. He urged Zijin to expand its support for local businesses through the local‑content framework.
The Minister’s visit to China is part of broader efforts to promote Ghana’s mining sector, attract international investment, and explore technology and partnerships that can support more sustainable and value‑driven mining operations in the country.
