The government of Ghana has received GH¢391.195 million, equivalent to US$35 million, in dividends from Perseus Mining (Ghana) Limited, representing a significant increase from the US$5 million paid to the state last year.
Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced the payment, expressing appreciation to the mining company for increasing its contribution to the country.
According to Ato Forson, the substantial rise in the dividend reflects the strong profitability of Perseus Mining and demonstrates the importance of ensuring that Ghana derives greater value from its mineral resources.
He stressed that the country must receive its fair share from the extractive sector, particularly when mining companies record increased revenues and profits.
Ato Forson explained that this principle informed the government’s decision to introduce a sliding-scale system for the mining sector, under which the state’s share increases when mining companies benefit from higher earnings.
“When mining companies earn more, the people of Ghana must benefit more,” he said.
The Finance Minister said the policy was part of broader efforts by the government to maximise the benefits of Ghana’s natural resources for the Ghanaian people while creating a fair and sustainable framework for mining operations.
He thanked Perseus Mining (Ghana) Limited on behalf of the government and people of Ghana for the latest dividend payment, noting that the significant increase from US$5 million to US$35 million represents a major boost to the state’s revenue from the company.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Mavis Fantevi
