The Ghanaian government has revealed its proposal for a joint venture manganese refinery project valued at US$450 million. This collaborative effort involves the Ghana Manganese Company (GMC) and Ningxia Tianyuan Manganese Industry Group (TMI).
In his State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo disclosed plans to construct a manganese ore refinery in close proximity to GMC’s Nsuta mine in Ghana’s Western region. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing the value of green minerals, particularly manganese, which plays a crucial role in the production of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs).
Ghana secured its position as the fourth-largest global producer of manganese ore in 2023, with exports exceeding 4 million tons. Despite this accomplishment, the country currently lacks refining capacity, leading to 95% of its ore being exported to China. The realization of additional value from its resources hinges on substantial infrastructure investments from industry participants, including TMI.
Ningxia Tianyuan Manganese Industry Group, recognized as a diversified industrial group engaged in ore mining, metallurgy, and chemicals, holds a significant stake in Consmin, overseeing operations at the Nsuta mine in Ghana and the Woodie Woodie mine in Australia. TMI, standing as the largest manganese metal producer, aims to establish a 1 million tons High Purity Manganese Sulfate Monohydrate (HP MSM) production line in China.
While specific details about the intended production of the plant remain undisclosed, TMI’s involvement in both the EV battery and alloy sectors suggests a strategic investment in its existing supply chain. This positions GMC to potentially develop a production line with a reduced carbon footprint, aligning with the government’s broader objectives for a green transition.
