Otumfuo Pushes for Increased Value Addition in Gold; As Australia Invites Him for State Visit
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called for increased technological investment to add value to Ghana’s minerals, particularly gold.
Emphasizing the country’s abundant mineral resources, His Majesty stated that this is the best way for Ghana to maximize benefits from its mineral wealth. He made these remarks during a meeting with Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, at the Manhyia Palace.
The High Commissioner’s visit was aimed to strengthen the ties between Ghana and Australia, and she extended an invitation to Otumfuo to visit Australia, highlighting that her country and continent would be delighted to welcome a globally acclaimed traditional leader like him.
Agriculture
In addition to minerals, the Asantehene drew attention to Ghana’s agricultural sector as a promising area for investment. “Ghana is primarily an agrarian country. We need to produce food for ourselves, and we require the technology that we believe we can share together,” he said.
He proposed the formation of two teams of Ghanaian and Australian experts to identify mutually beneficial sectors for collaboration.
Exceptional Leadership
Ms. Owen-Jones praised the Asantehene for his exceptional leadership and noted his role in preserving tradition while promoting development and peace, which she described as worthy of emulation.
Responsible Mining
She also called for collaboration between Australian mining firms and Ghana to establish responsible and eco-friendly mining projects.
She expressed optimism that such partnerships would lead to shared prosperity, job creation, skills transfer, and environmental stewardship.
The envoy was accompanied to the Palace by Nana Ama Serwaa Bonsu, President of the Queenmothers Foundation, and Nana Serwaah Peprah, Executive Assistant to the High Commissioner.
