Kumawood actor Kwaku Manu has sparked fresh national debate after calling on the government not to renew the mining lease of Gold Fields for operations at the Tarkwa mine.
In a video circulating on social media, the outspoken actor linked his appeal to alleged xenophobic incidents involving Ghanaians in South Africa.
He suggested that Ghana should reconsider its economic relationship with South African-linked mining interests in the country as a form of response, even though he acknowledged that Ghanaians should not engage in retaliation against foreign nationals living in Ghana.
Kwaku Manu further argued that Ghana is now well-positioned to take greater control of its natural resources, particularly gold mining, urging authorities to prioritize local ownership and prioritisation in the sector.
He referenced Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama and his company Engineers & Planners (E&P) as examples of local firms capable of handling large-scale mining operations.
He also pointed to the operations at the Tarkwa Mine, one of Ghana’s key gold mining sites, as part of his broader call for increased Ghanaian control over strategic mineral resources.
The actor’s comments have triggered mixed reactions online. While some social media users agree with his push for stronger local participation in the mining industry, others believe his stance mixes economic policy with unrelated international tensions.
The discussion adds to ongoing conversations about resource ownership, foreign investment, and Ghana’s role in the global mining industry, with many awaiting an official response from authorities and stakeholders in the sector.