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The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Justina Nelson, has highlighted the need for sustainable mining practices to protect the ecosystem. She stated that sustainability is crucial for long-term profitability in Ghana’s mining industry and urged industry players to rethink their operations to safeguard the environment. Louisa Quarcoo, representing Justina Nelson, delivered a keynote at the 6th Africa Sustainability Report and Think Energy SDGs Awards in Accra on October 22, 2025, addressing the theme: “The Future of Mining: How Sustainability Can Drive Long-Term Profitability.” The event was attended by government officials, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates, among others. Nelson emphasised MIIF’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy and encouraged mining stakeholders to align profitability with environmental and social responsibilities. She explained that Ghana’s mining sector needs to adapt to the rising global demand for critical minerals like lithium and cobalt while protecting ecosystems, water bodies, and empowering communities. “In today’s climate-resilient world, profitability and responsibility are no longer mutually exclusive. The future of mining lies in integrating sustainable practices that not only protect the environment but also enhance operational performance and social trust,” she added. The MIIF CEO also highlighted local issues, citing a warning from the Ghana Water Company Limited about possible shutdowns of water treatment plants due to pollution from illegal mining. She noted that this situation has prompted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to order an immediate halt to all illegal mining near water bodies, underscoring the urgency of the matter. “Illegal activities like galamsey are not distant problems; they are urgent realities that threaten Ghana’s water security, public health, and economic stability,” she cautioned. Nelson further referenced a recent meeting led by President John Dramani Mahama with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), describing it as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and safeguarding the ecosystem. She also commended mining firms investing in renewable energy, electric and hydrogen-powered fleets, and precision mining technologies. These innovations, she explained, reduce carbon emissions, minimise water usage, and boost profitability by cutting costs and increasing efficiency. However, she emphasised that sustainability should also create shared value for local communities. “Leading companies are investing in skills development, infrastructure, and inclusive governance. This isn’t charity, but a smart, strategic investment in long-term operational security,” she added. MIIF’s sustainability drive centers on its ESG Policy, which includes seven core performance standards such as labor practices, pollution prevention, biodiversity conservation, and Indigenous rights. Investments undergo ESG risk assessments to ensure sustainable impact. The Fund requires investee companies to submit detailed ESG risk assessments and management plans, which are monitored throughout the investment lifecycle. Justina Nelson emphasised that while sustainable practices require initial investment, they deliver better long-term economic returns through cost savings, premium pricing, lower regulatory risk, and increased stakeholder trust. “As the world decarbonises and global mineral demand rises, sustainability is not just a compliance issue; it’s a value-creation strategy. At MIIF, our mission is clear; to convert Ghana’s mineral wealth into lasting value for future generations. The future of mining is not about extracting more, but about creating more responsibly, sustainably, and profitably,” she noted.
