Bright Simons unveils ‘ghost investors’ in Ghana’s Royal Gold Refinery, prompting calls for transparency

Bright Simons, Honorary Vice President of IMANI Africa, has alleged that “ghost investors” linked to politically connected elites control Ghana’s gold refinery through opaque ownership structures. These claims raise concerns over transparency and governance in the country’s resource management.

Ghana, a leading gold producer contributing 7% of global output, established refineries like the Gold Coast Refinery and the recently inaugurated Royal Ghana Gold Refinery to boost domestic processing and revenue.

However, Simons questions the viability of these ventures, citing thin profit margins and political interference.

The allegations surface as President-elect John Mahama prepares to launch Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), an anti-corruption initiative targeting misappropriated state resources.

The revelations test the incoming administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in Ghana’s resource governance. The government has yet to respond.