The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, has stated that the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) is strategically positioned to develop Sheini and Oppong-Manso Iron Ore deposit within the next three years.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on October 21, Hon. Asomah-Cheremeh said “The Corporation since its establishment has achieved the following: Signed MOU with GEM GLOBAL to expand and develop the Oppong Manso iron ore deposit and its environment and to build an iron ore refinery.
“Reviewing existing geological data undertaken by Emmaland Resources in the Sheini Hills to confirm the state and economic viability of the iron ore deposit. Reviewing existing geological data undertaken by GEM Global in the Oppong Manso exploration sites to confirm the state and economic viability of the iron ore deposit.”
He continued: “GIISDEC has also partnered with Ghana Geological Survey Authority to evaluate and confirm the discovery of iron ore deposit in the following locations: Akpafu-Bowiri, Jasikan Bodad, Baglo Kute, KwameKrom, Kadjebi Akokrowa, Krachi-Nkwanta.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, to ensure harmony in the development of the Iron and Steel industry and the environment, GIISDEC has: Profiled all Key stakeholders in the Iron and Steel Industry, Commenced engagement with key traditional leaders, Commenced a comprehensive community engagement process with affected communities… GIISDEC has also initiated the engagement of investors interested in the iron and steel industry.”
He noted that iron, the bedrock for the iron and steel industry and the base material for the automobile industry. He said for a long time Ghana has been sitting on a mineral that has the potential to catapult the local economy but it has not been given much attention. Thus, to promote and develop an integrated iron and steel industry in the country, Hon. Asomah-Cheremeh said the government enacted an Act of Parliament in March 2019 to establish the GIISDEC.
Source: 3 News
