The Minerals Commission of Ghana is embarking on a new era of leadership with the appointment of Isaac Tandoh as Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective September 16, 2025. This transition follows the reassignment of the current CEO, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as a Technical Advisor. The announcement, made on September 2, 2025, during a joint meeting of the Commission’s management and staff, signals a strategic move by the government to leverage Mr. Ayisi’s extensive experience in critical areas of the mining sector. Mr. Tandoh, the outgoing Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Small-scale and Industrial Minerals, brings over two decades of experience in the mining industry to his new role, having served in various leadership positions, including Mine Manager, at prominent large-scale mining companies before joining the Commission. This transition underscores the government’s focus on continuity and expertise within the mining sector.
The appointment of Mr. Tandoh reflects a deliberate effort to maintain momentum and build upon the progress achieved under Mr. Ayisi’s leadership. Mr. Tandoh’s extensive experience within both the operational and regulatory aspects of the mining industry positions him well to navigate the complexities of the sector and guide the Commission through its next phase of development. His prior role as Deputy Chief Executive overseeing small-scale and industrial minerals provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse challenges and opportunities within Ghana’s mining landscape. This background, coupled with his commitment to continuing the Commission’s mission, suggests a smooth transition and a continued focus on sustainable growth within the sector.
The reassignment of Mr. Ayisi to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as a Technical Advisor highlights the government’s recognition of his valuable expertise. His experience in mining regulation, governance, and institutional reforms will be directly utilized at the ministerial level to inform policy decisions and strengthen the overall framework governing the mining sector. This strategic move allows the government to tap into Mr. Ayisi’s knowledge and insights to further develop and refine its approach to managing and regulating the mining industry, ultimately contributing to the sector’s long-term sustainability and contribution to national development.
The transition process emphasizes the importance of collaboration and continuity within the Minerals Commission. Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yusif Sulemana, who announced the changes on behalf of Sector Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, emphasized the need for a seamless handover. He commended Mr. Ayisi for his dedicated service and urged the Commission’s staff to support Mr. Tandoh in his new role. This call for unity and cooperation underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a stable and productive transition, minimizing disruption and maintaining the Commission’s focus on its core mandate.
Mr. Tandoh’s acceptance remarks further reinforced the commitment to continuity and progress. He expressed his dedication to building upon the foundation laid by Mr. Ayisi and steering the Commission towards its next phase of growth. This pledge reflects an understanding of the importance of maintaining stability and building upon past achievements while simultaneously embracing new opportunities and challenges. Mr. Tandoh’s commitment to collaboration and his recognition of the collective effort required to drive the Commission forward suggests a leadership approach that values teamwork and inclusivity.
The Minerals Commission, in its official statement, echoed the sentiments of support and continuity. The Commission extended its best wishes to Mr. Ayisi in his new advisory role and affirmed its full backing for Mr. Tandoh as he assumes the leadership of the organization. This public display of support reinforces the message of a unified transition and demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to working together to achieve its strategic objectives. The transition, therefore, represents not just a change in leadership but a reaffirmation of the Commission’s dedication to its mission and its commitment to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector.
