Ghana Bauxite Company to refine its waste after successful completion of refinery

The Ghana Bauxite Company believes a bauxite refinery will help. It will make rejected bauxite useful for local use and export.

Currently, about 48 percent of alumina content is rejected for export. This waste is dumped in the mine’s tailing dam.

General Manager Alexander Gyedu said the company is working on the refinery. He stated, "We are focused on adding value to our bauxite exports."

Gyedu noted that some mined areas have low-quality bauxite. With a refinery, they can refine alumina content below 48 percent.

He spoke to the media during a visit with Western North Regional Minister Wilbert Petty Brentum.

The mine’s tailing dam is currently full of aluminum that doesn't meet export standards. It contains about 47 percent alumina content, which can be refined.

This tailing dam will be the first target after completing the refinery. Gyedu said, “We can refine this 47% alumina content.”

Refining it will generate more revenue and taxes. It will also create jobs and support local development, aligning with GIADEC's plans.

In 2022, IOP Group acquired 80 percent of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited in Awaso. They invested US$122 million to upgrade infrastructure and resolve operational issues.

This investment increased the company’s bauxite tonnage to 1.8 million tons. Building the refinery is a key step in transforming Ghana's mining industry.

About three thousand square kilometers of land has been identified for evaluation by the Lands Commission.

The Water Resources Commission and Forestry Commission are aware of these developments.

Gyedu mentioned that the Valuation Department is assessing land values. They expect a report by June to compensate affected farmers before starting construction.

The Western North Regional Coordinating Council supports Ghana Bauxite Company's plans for a refinery.

Minister Wilbert Petty Brentum stated that developing this refinery will empower local people economically. He praised the positive changes brought by the fully-owned Ghanaian company since its takeover.