Ghana’s mining regulator is developing wage and tender benchmarks for contractors as Newmont (NYSE:NEM), Zijin Mining Group (HKEX:2899), and other operators work towards a year-end deadline for transferring certain mining activities to locally owned companies.
The Minerals Commission has identified Newmont, Zijin, and Ghana Manganese Company among the operators yet to complete the transition required under local content rules introduced in January 2025.
Surface mining activities including blasting, loading, hauling, and dumping must be undertaken by wholly Ghanaian-owned contractors. Underground operations must use contractors with at least 50% Ghanaian ownership.
Companies have until 31 December 2026 to comply or face sanctions.
Minerals Commission local content director Ben Birch-Mensah told Reuters the regulator is preparing a minimum wage threshold intended to prevent workers from receiving lower pay under contract-mining arrangements.
Minimum tender benchmarks are also being considered to discourage contractors from submitting bids that may not cover operating, training, and safety costs. A committee is expected to develop the details, although proposed rates and an implementation timetable have not been mentioned.
The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union has previously raised concerns that greater reliance on contractors could reduce wages and job security.
The Ghana Chamber of Mines opposes mandatory contract mining, arguing that outsourcing should remain a commercial decision. However, it supports measures to curb underbidding where this could affect worker welfare, training, or safety.
The Minerals Commission regulates Ghana’s mineral resources and oversees licensing, local content, and industry compliance.
Write to France Pinzon at Mining.com.au
Images: Minerals Commission
