We must utilize our natural resources well and add value to them – Frank Otuo Acheampong
Frank Otuo Acheampong, a communications team member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has made a passionate call for Ghana to rethink its approach to natural resource management.
Ghana is a country richly endowed with natural resources, gold, bauxite, manganese, oil, cocoa, timber, and more. Yet, for decades, the nation has remained largely an exporter of raw materials while importing finished goods at high costs. Mr. Acheampong argued that this model is not only outdated but detrimental to long-term national growth.
He stressed that adding value to these resources through local processing and manufacturing would not only create jobs but also increase revenue, enhance skills development, and build a more resilient economy.
Acheampong tied his argument into the broader theme of industrialization, highlighting the importance of government policy and private sector collaboration in building the necessary infrastructure and investment climate. He criticized successive governments for failing to build lasting industrial capacity and called for a national consensus on resource beneficiation.
He pointed to successful models in countries like Malaysia and South Korea, which have transitioned from raw material-based economies to high-value manufacturing hubs through deliberate policy choices.
Mr. Acheampong emphasized that the change must begin with political will and visionary leadership. He challenged policymakers, especially those in power, to prioritize value addition in their development agenda.
According to him, the NDC remains committed to promoting policies that enhance local content and maximize the benefits of Ghana’s resources for Ghanaians.
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