Presidential Spokesperson and Senior Aide to President John Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has joined the calls for growing support for increased indigenous participation in Ghana’s mineral resource sector, as stakeholders continue to advocate stronger local control and investment in the country’s extractive industry nearly 70 years after independence.

The debate, which has gained traction in recent weeks, centres on Ghana’s efforts to assert greater sovereignty over its mineral resources while creating more opportunities for local companies to participate meaningfully in the management and development of the sector.

According to Madam Mogtari,  the policy direction is not intended to discourage foreign investment but rather to ensure that capable Ghanaian-owned companies are given greater opportunities to contribute to the country’s economic development.

She argue that over the years, several indigenous businesses have developed the technical expertise, operational capacity, and industry experience needed to manage portions of Ghana’s mineral wealth effectively and responsibly.

Supporters of the initiative also maintain that the country has reached a stage where it can confidently test and expand the role of local enterprises in strategic sectors of the economy, particularly mining and natural resources.

She joined the calls in a statement hosted on her Facebook wall on Thursday 

The growing conversation has attracted backing from influential individuals and industry observers, many of whom believe increased local participation could strengthen economic sovereignty, improve value retention, and promote sustainable national development.

Advocates further stress that the key measure of success will be the ability of local companies to build on existing industry structures, maintain operational standards, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s long-term economic transformation.

The renewed focus on indigenous participation comes amid broader national discussions on economic resilience, resource governance, and the role of local businesses in driving inclusive growth and protecting Ghana’s strategic interests.