The Ghana Chamber of Mines has officially introduced its new Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Dr Ashigbey, marking a strategic step forward in the organisation’s mission to promote sustainable and responsible mining practices in Ghana.

Dr Ashigbey, who previously served in the telecommunications sector, addressed journalists at a press conference in Accra, today, June 10, 2025, where he reiterated his commitment to combating illegal mining and advancing responsible, transgenerational mining in the country.

"There’s a transition from telecoms to mines, so it’s important to state that the two entities are both private member organizations," Dr. Ashigbe said. "The Ghana Chamber of Mines is not a state entity, and so I just want to clarify that I have not been appointed with presidential powers from Jubilee House. We work closely with government, policy makers, and regulators—but always in the interest of advancing the mining industry."

Highlighting the chamber’s ongoing efforts to promote environmentally conscious mining, Dr Ashigbey emphasized the importance of aligning industry goals with sustainability.

"The interesting thing is that if you look at the objectives of the Chamber itself, it stands for responsible, transgenerational mining. It is important for the Chamber to ensure that—just as we have done historically—we remain responsive in our operations, and that mined areas are restored once work is complete," he explained.

Dr Ashigbey also noted that member companies of the Chamber often bear the consequences of irresponsible mining practices, especially from illegal operators. He called for greater cooperation from civil society in the fight against “galamsey,” the local term for illegal mining.

"The members of the Chamber tend to be at the receiving end of some of the irresponsibility and illegal mining activities. So there's an alignment between the Chamber’s values and the broader goal of ensuring Ghana mines sustainably," he said. "I’m not too sure much will change in that regard, except to hope that my colleagues in the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey will also step up to the plate and share the responsibility."

Looking ahead, Dr Ashigbey promised to deepen stakeholder engagement and strengthen the Chamber’s advocacy for green mining initiatives.

"If anything, I’m hoping that we will be in a better position to improve our sustainable and green mining initiatives, particularly by leveraging the Chamber as a vehicle to enhance our engagement with major stakeholders," he added.

Dr Ashigbey takes over at a time when Ghana continues to grapple with the socio-environmental challenges posed by illegal mining, and his leadership is expected to play a critical role in reshaping the mining landscape toward long-term sustainability.

Dr Ashigbey brings a diverse portfolio of leadership experience spanning media, technology, infrastructure, and engineering.