A Major Step Toward Industrialization
The Ghana Bauxite Company Limited (GBC), located in Awaso in the Western North Region, has announced plans to construct a bauxite refinery, a significant move aimed at adding value to the company’s output and enhancing Ghana’s industrialization efforts.
The announcement was made by Alexander Gyedu, General Manager of GBC, during the official opening of the company’s Community Relations Office at Awaso.
According to Mr. Gyedu, the proposed refinery will process raw bauxite into alumina, a key material in aluminum production. This initiative will not only increase the value of Ghana’s bauxite but also reduce dependency on foreign refineries, ensuring that more of the economic benefits remain within the country.
“This refinery will significantly improve our operations, generate more revenue, and create employment opportunities for the local community,” he stated.
Government’s Support for the Project
The Western North Regional Minister, Wilbert Petty Brentum, expressed strong support for the refinery project, stating that it aligns with the government’s broader vision to develop an integrated aluminum industry in Ghana.
“This initiative will not only improve the efficiency of the company but also create more job opportunities for the people of Awaso and surrounding communities,” he said.
According to Mr. Brentum, leveraging local bauxite deposits for alumina production will reduce the importation of processed aluminum, strengthen local industries, and ensure that Ghana benefits from its natural resources.
He further noted that the government’s commitment to such projects demonstrates its focus on economic growth and its dedication to supporting indigenous businesses.
Significant Growth Under Local Ownership
The Ghana Bauxite Company has seen remarkable progress since being taken over by Ofori-Poku Company Limited (OPCL), a wholly Ghanaian-owned construction firm, which acquired an 80% stake in 2022. The Government of Ghana retains a 20% share, managed by the Ghana Integrated Aluminum Development Corporation (GIADEC).
According to Alexander Gyedu, when OPCL took over in 2022, the company had 483 employees. As of February 2025, the workforce had grown to 1,158, with more recruitments planned to boost production.
The company has also invested heavily in new equipment, acquiring:
- 160 new 9-axle trucks for transportation.
- 42 earth-moving machines for mining operations.
- 52 dump trucks and 16 utility vehicles to improve logistics.
- A surface miner and 35 light-duty vehicles to enhance efficiency.
- Two rollers and a tractor slasher for site maintenance.
These investments have significantly improved operations, increasing bauxite haulage from 600,000 tons in 2022 to 1.7 million tons in 2024.
Expanding Production and Exploration Efforts
To sustain its growth, GBC has embarked on a major exploration program to assess bauxite reserves within its concession. The company also plans to:
- Develop a new mining area to expand production.
- Purchase additional modern equipment to enhance efficiency.
- Implement various technological innovations to improve output.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
During the event, Oyeadeeyie Basape Kojo Armah III, the Paramount Chief of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Area, commended GBC for prioritizing corporate social responsibility. The opening of the Community Relations Office, he said, is a testament to GBC’s commitment to addressing stakeholder concerns and supporting local development.
“GBC’s investment in community engagement shows a strong commitment to social development,” he added.
Source: B&FT