Ghana has received a $35 million Perseus Mining dividend, a sharp increase from the $5 million paid to the state last year, as government pushes for a larger share of the country's mineral wealth.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said the payment, equivalent to about GH¢391.2 million, reflected improved profitability by Perseus Mining (Ghana) Limited.
Sevenfold jump in state dividend
The latest payment represents a sevenfold increase over the previous year's dividend and highlights the growing revenue potential available to the state when mining companies record stronger earnings.
“Ghana must receive its fair share from the extractive sector,” Dr Ato Forson said.
He linked the increase to government's sliding-scale system, which is designed to ensure that the state's returns rise alongside the profitability of mining firms.
“That is why we introduced the sliding-scale system: when mining companies earn more, the people of Ghana must benefit more!” he said.
Government eyes bigger returns from mining
The Finance Minister said the government remained committed to strengthening Ghana's share of benefits from its natural resources.
He expressed appreciation to Perseus Mining on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana for the $35 million payment.
The dividend adds to the broader debate over how resource-rich countries can secure greater value from extractive industries beyond taxes and royalties.
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