Empowering Ghana’s Economy: The VALCO modernization project is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost Ghana’s economic growth
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has inaugurated an Investor Selection Committee to oversee the revitalisation of the Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO) and the development of Ghana’s first alumina refinery.
The Committee, established under the Ministry and the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation, will evaluate investor proposals and recommend a strategic partner capable of delivering a modern and efficient aluminium industry that advances Ghana’s national development goals.
In his inaugural address, Hon. Buah described the refinery and the VALCO modernisation as two cornerstone projects of Ghana’s industrialisation agenda, signalling the country’s transition from a raw material-exporting economy to one that processes and adds value. “The refinery will feed the smelter, the smelter will anchor downstream aluminium manufacturing, and together they will drive new industrial clusters supported by logistics, power, rail, and port infrastructure. The goal is clear: we must move from mine and export to process, manufacture, and export,” he said.
The Minister noted that President John Dramani Mahama’s reset industrial agenda seeks to integrate Ghana’s aluminium value chain, a vision first championed by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He reminded the Committee that this moment is both technical and moral, calling on members to work with integrity, transparency, and a deep sense of national purpose.
Hon. Buah tasked the Committee to attract the right blend of investors who bring not only capital, but also technology, expertise, and skills that translate directly into job creation, capacity building, and strong local participation. He reaffirmed that the process will remain transparent, merit-based, and aligned with national interests, ensuring environmental responsibility and sustainable community development.
The Committee’s Chairman, Mr. Augustus Agbeli Amegashie, pledged diligence and commitment in carrying out the mandate and noted the growing international investor interest as a sign of confidence in Ghana’s leadership and industrial future.
Once completed, the VALCO modernisation and alumina refinery projects will close the decades-long gap in Ghana’s aluminium value chain, create thousands of jobs, and position the country as a leading producer of value-added aluminium in Africa.
In this renewal, the Ministry affirms its unwavering commitment to the vision first set by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and carried forward by President John Dramani Mahama, a Ghana that transforms its resources into lasting prosperity through industry, integrity, and innovation.
Issued by:
Communications Directorate
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
