Ghana’s $600M Iron Ore Project Set to Begin in 2025—-Ghana is set to begin large-scale iron ore mining by the end of 2025, as the Shieni Iron Ore Project moves forward under the leadership of Emmerland Resource Limited. The initiative seeks to reduce the country’s reliance on imported steel, boost local production, and create jobs.
The project is led by Emmerland Resource Limited, a Ghanaian company licensed to mine iron ore deposits in Shieni, Northern Region.
Mr. Williams Okofo-Datch, CEO of the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), said the Shieni project will be a game-changer for Ghana’s industrial sector.
“The corporation’s mandate is to ensure the development of the steel industry in Ghana, and we are working closely with Emmerland Resource Limited to make this project a reality,” he stated.
Ghana has an estimated 1.7 billion tonnes of iron ore, primarily located in the Savannah and Oti regions, with an iron content exceeding 55%.
The Shieni deposit alone has an inferred resource of 1.3 billion tonnes at 33.8% iron content. However, despite these vast reserves, the country still imports about 800,000 metric tonnes of iron and steel annually, costing approximately $900 million.
Mr. Okofo-Datch emphasized that developing a fully integrated steel industry requires significant financial commitment.
“To set up even a small steel plant, you need about $100 million. A full-scale industry will cost between $300 million and $600 million, which is why attracting the right investors is critical,” he explained.
Ghana currently imports a significant portion of its steel products from China, Turkey, and South Africa. In 2023 alone, the country spent $527.5 million on iron and steel imports, with steel bars accounting for $35.6 million.
Other major imports included construction steel, vehicle frame components, roofing sheets, and machinery parts, products that could be manufactured locally if the iron and steel industry is fully developed.
The local steel sector already has an annual production capacity of 650,000 metric tonnes and supports over 4,500 direct jobs. By leveraging domestic iron ore resources, the Shieni project could transform Ghana into a key player in regional steel production.
The Shieni project has received strong backing from both the government and local traditional authorities.
During a recent visit to Yendi in the Northern Region, traditional leaders appealed to the government to prioritize the project, highlighting its potential to create jobs and drive regional economic growth.
Mr. Okofo-Datch also confirmed that Emmerland Resource Limited, led by CEO Emmanuel Ababu, has demonstrated both financial and technical readiness to commence operations.
“We visited Mr. Ababu, and he provided comprehensive documentation, including internationally certified mineral resource estimates. He assured us that raising the necessary capital will not be an issue,” Mr. Okofo-Datch said.
