The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on the mining sector to adopt a new approach that prioritises sustainable development and equitable distribution of resources.

Delivering the open address at the opening ceremony of the "Mining in Motion" conference in Accra, the Asantehene emphasised the need for the industry to move in a direction that maximises benefits while minimising negative impacts.

"Gold, diamond, platinum, and critical minerals represent the ultimate in the grace of God to mankind," the Asantehene said.

"These resources are the core of world creation and the economic health of nations. Logically, if we can get the production and management of these resources right, we should be well aware of the poverty trap."

The Asantehene highlighted the challenges posed by illicit mining, including environmental degradation and the loss of revenue for the state.

He urged stakeholders to work together to find solutions to these problems and to ensure that the industry contributes to the economic development of Ghana and Africa as a whole.

"We need to grab the nettle and move the dial in a new direction," he said.

"The gold market can show the way by encouraging partnerships in producer countries for the establishment of manufacturing industries that will give them the capacity to add value to their raw materials."

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also emphasised the need for greater collaboration between the mining industry and African countries to promote economic development and reduce poverty.

He called on the international finance community to be less risk-averse towards Africa and to work with the private sector to strengthen their capacity to move economies upward.

The "Mining in Motion" conference, which runs from June 2nd to 4th, 2025, brings together stakeholders and industry experts to discuss the future of mining in Ghana and Africa.

The conference aims to promote sustainable development and equitable distribution of resources in the mining sector.