Ghana Manganese Company Plans Major Refinery Project
The Ghana Manganese Company (GMC) is set to establish a manganese refinery in the Tarkwa enclave, near Nsuta in the Western Region. This ambitious project, estimated to cost approximately $450 million, aims to enhance the value of raw manganese products, create job opportunities for local youth, and contribute to the socio-economic development of the country. The announcement was made by GMC’s Deputy Managing Director, Sun Yuanwei, during the inauguration ceremony of the vessel MV CBS Years at Takoradi Port.
The MV CBS Years is notable for being the largest bulk carrier to ever dock at any port in West Africa, boasting a capacity of 300,000 metric tonnes. Its arrival signifies a significant milestone for both GMC and the port’s operations. This initiative is a collaborative effort between GMC, COSCO Shipping Lines, and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The docking of this vessel is expected to enhance bulk export shipments through Takoradi Port, ultimately boosting export revenue for both GPHA and the nation.
Yuanwei emphasized that the vessel’s arrival marks a transformative moment for GMC and the broader maritime and mining industries in the sub-region. He stated, “For GMC, this moment reaffirms our commitment to leadership in the global manganese market. Every tonne we mine, every shipment we dispatch, and every partnership we build tells a story of progress.” He also highlighted that the successful docking of the MV CBS Years showcases the company’s readiness to tackle future challenges and seize new opportunities.
Strategic Developments and Infrastructure Improvements
Captain James Quayson, Director of Takoradi Port, praised the vessel’s berthing as a testament to the strategic vision and sustained investment in infrastructure at the port. He noted the importance of operational efficiency and strong public-private partnerships in achieving this milestone. However, he also pointed out the necessity of transporting manganese from the mining area to the port via rail.
To facilitate this, plans are underway to connect Takoradi Port to the Western Railway Line, allowing for the transportation of cargo by rail instead of road. This development is expected to enhance logistics efficiency and reduce wear on the region’s road infrastructure.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson expressed his satisfaction with the initiative, highlighting that manganese extracted from the region supports industries worldwide. He commended GMC for its plans to build a refinery, which will ensure that the region’s resources are processed locally, adding value before export.
The Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, Naba Kobina Nketsia V, voiced his support for the refinery project but expressed concern over the timeline for its commencement. He emphasized the need for local resources to be processed domestically rather than exported in raw form. Additionally, he reiterated the benefits of rail transport for manganese, which would help extend the lifespan of the region’s road networks.
This refinery project and the arrival of the MV CBS Years represent significant steps forward for GMC and the Western Region, promising to enhance the local economy and the global manganese market.
