Ghana Bauxite Company Prioritises Environmental Protection

The management of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited has reiterated its commitment to environmental protection, emphasizing that the company’s operations are guided by strict adherence to ecological regulations.

Mr. Alexander Gyedu said, Ghana Bauxite Company Limited (GBC) is dedicated to responsible resource management, striving to minimize its impact on the environment through conservation, reclamation measures, and sustainable mining practices.

Mr. Gyedu noted that the company diligently complies with regulatory standards and submits to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as required by law.

This, he said, demonstrates the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its environmental stewardship.

Commendation:
Environmental experts have praised Ghana Bauxite Company Limited’s efforts, noting that the mining sector has a significant impact on the environment and that responsible practices are essential to mitigating this impact.

The government has also been vocal about its commitment to protecting the environment, particularly in the mining sector.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has emphasized the need for mining companies to prioritize environmental protection.

EPA:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also been working closely with mining companies, including Ghana Bauxite Company Limited, to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations.

Ghana Bauxite Company Limited’s commitment to environmental protection is particularly significant given the company’s location in the Western North Region, an area known for its rich biodiversity.

The company’s efforts to minimize its environmental impact are also in line with the government’s vision to promote sustainable development and environmental protection.

Mr Gyedu mentioned that as the mining sector continues to play a critical role in Ghana’s economy, it is essential that companies like Ghana Bauxite Company Limited prioritize environmental protection.

Concession:
GBC’s Awaso Mine concession covers an area of 47.04 sq km. The Company’s ractified 30-year Mining Lease covers the Subri, Inchiniso, Kanayerebo, Afumba, and Boakakhirri.

GBC has been operating the Inchiniso pit since 1969, producing high-grade trihydrate bauxite annually.

The Run of Mine (ROM) annually is at an average of 2.5 million metric tonnes.
Historically, Bauxite was first discovered in Ghana by the Gold Coast Geological Survey team in 1921.

Background:
In 2022, Bosai group transferred their shareholding of 80% to the current owner- Ofori – Opoku Company limited (OPCL) a member of the IOP Group of Companies with Government of Ghana still retaining its 20% share.

Success Story Of GBC:
In 2022, Isaac Ofori Poku (IOP), a visionary Ghanaian businessman, acquired approximately 80% shares of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited at Awaso in the Western North Region, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s mining industry.

This acquisition transferred majority ownership of the company to a local entity, paving the way for a new era of success.

Under IOP’s leadership, Ghana Bauxite Company Limited has undergone a remarkable transformation. One of the major visions of Mr. Ofori Poku was to reduce the unemployment rate in the catchment areas and Ghana at large.

True to his word, the company has increased its contract staff strength from 465 to 1061 employees, with 976 males and 85 females.

This significant increase in employment opportunities has had a positive impact on the local economy.

In addition to creating jobs, IOP has also invested heavily in acquiring new and sophisticated equipment to boost production.

The company has acquired 56 new equipment and 198 new trucks, including Sino trucks, RDT trucks, TX 400 dump trucks, and Howo 371 trucks.

This significant investment has enabled the company to increase its production capacity and export more bauxite ore.
The results are impressive. In 2024, Ghana Bauxite Company Limited, Awaso exported a record 1.8 million metric tons of bauxite ore to China and other parts of the world.

This achievement is unprecedented in the history of the company and a testament to IOP’s vision and leadership.

The success of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited under IOP’s leadership is a shining example of what can be achieved when local businesses are given the opportunity to thrive.

With a dynamic and energetic management team, supported by a committed workforce, the company is poised for even greater success in the future.