Ghana Bauxite Company targets 6m tonnes by end of 2025

Ghana Bauxite Company Limited (GBC) aims to produce 6 million tonnes of bauxite by the end of 2025. To reach this target, GBC has invested US$122.97 million in infrastructure and operations.

This investment has allowed GBC to acquire new equipment. The fleet includes surface miners, haulage trucks, dump trucks, excavators, and upgraded machinery. General Manager Mr. Alexander Gyedu announced a production increase during a press briefing in Awaso.

Production rose from 1.3 million tonnes per year to about 1.8 million tonnes in 2024. This milestone followed Ofori-Poku Company Limited's (OPCL) takeover from Bosai Group in 2022.

OPCL replaced old equipment after acquiring GBC. By February 2025, OPCL had obtained 42 new earth-moving machines and more vehicles. They expect a second surface miner by June 2025.

The Haulage department improved significantly under OPCL's management. They added 161 nine-axle trucks since taking over in 2022. This boosted haulage operations from around 600,000 tons in 2022 to about 1.7 million tons in 2024.

As GBC works towards its production goal, it remains committed to environmentally responsible mining practices. New equipment is expected to reduce the company's environmental footprint.

GBC's expansion plans will positively impact the local economy. The company emphasizes corporate social responsibility and sustainable development.

Environmental Protection Commitment

Ghana Bauxite Company Limited prioritizes environmental protection in its operations. Mr. Gyedu stated that GBC adheres strictly to ecological regulations.

The company focuses on responsible resource management and minimizing environmental impact through conservation efforts and sustainable practices. GBC complies with regulatory standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Environmental experts commend GBC for its responsible practices amid mining's significant environmental impacts. The government also stresses the importance of environmental protection within the mining sector.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources encourages mining companies to prioritize ecological concerns as well. The EPA collaborates with companies like GBC to ensure compliance with regulations.

Given its location in the Western North Region, known for rich biodiversity, GBC’s commitment is crucial for sustainable development goals set by the government.

Mr. Gyedu emphasized that as mining plays a vital role in Ghana’s economy, companies must prioritize environmental protection.

GBC operates on a concession covering an area of 47.04 sq km with a ratified Mining Lease lasting for thirty years across several sites including Subri and Inchiniso pits since 1969.

Historically, bauxite was discovered in Ghana by the Gold Coast Geological Survey team in 1921. In 2022, Bosai Group transferred their majority shareholding to Ofori-Poku Company Limited (OPCL), while the Government retains a minority share of 20%.

Success Journey of GBC

In 2022, Isaac Ofori Poku acquired approximately an 80% stake in Ghana Bauxite Company Limited at Awaso, marking a pivotal moment for Ghana's mining industry.

This acquisition shifted majority ownership to a local entity and initiated significant changes under IOP’s leadership aimed at reducing unemployment rates locally and nationally.

True to his vision, employment at GBC increased from 465 contract staff members to over double that number—1061 employees—with most being male workers.

IOP also invested heavily in new equipment for production enhancement—acquiring over fifty-six new machines and nearly two hundred trucks including various models like Sino trucks and Howo trucks.

As a result of these investments, GBC exported a record-breaking total of 1.8 million metric tons of bauxite ore globally in 2024, showcasing unprecedented success under IOP’s leadership—a testament to what local businesses can achieve when supported effectively.