Nsuta: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is set to inaugurate the construction of a $450 million manganese refinery in Nsuta, Western Region, as part of efforts to enhance value addition to Ghana's mineral resources. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for November 21, 2024, marking a significant step in the government's initiative to transform the country's raw mineral export industry. According to Ghana News Agency, Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, announced the forthcoming project during a visit to the Ghana Manganese Company Limited at Nsuta. He reported that preparations for the refinery's construction are nearing completion, with high expectations from stakeholders that the project will commence before the year ends. Jinapor highlighted the economic importance of the refinery, noting that it aligns with President Akufo-Addo's vision for mineral value addition and will play a crucial role in boosting Ghana's economic growth. Jinapor emphasized that the refinery' s development marks a pivotal moment for Ghana, transitioning from exporting raw manganese to adding value within the country. This transformation is expected to create job opportunities for young people and enhance revenue streams for both the manganese industry and the state. He stated that extensive groundwork has been completed, including collaborative efforts between Ghanaian and Chinese teams, and the project is now awaiting parliamentary approval of the fiscal regime. Jurgen Eijgendaal, Managing Director of the Ghana Manganese Company Limited, expressed readiness to begin the project and committed to significant investments to ensure the refinery's success. The initiative is anticipated to end centuries of raw manganese exportation, fostering local economic benefits and strengthening downstream industries in Ghana.