By Kizito CUDJOE
AngloGold Ashanti’s Iduapriem Mine was named Mining Company of the Year at the 10th edition of the Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA), capping a decade of recognition for outstanding achievements in the country’s mining sector.
The awards, held under the auspices of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, highlighted the industry’s progress in innovation, sustainability and community engagement.
Out of the total number of companies that filed for the GMIA, AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine stood out for its exemplary performance in environmental management, safety practices and corporate social responsibility initiatives, solidifying its reputation as a leader in responsible mining.
AngloGold Iduapriem’s success is attributed to its focus on efficient operations, community investments and innovative approaches to managing environmental impacts. The company has consistently set high standards, earning accolades across multiple categories in previous editions of the GMIA.
In all, a total of 25 awards were presented during the ceremony, which marked ten years of celebrating excellence and resilience in the sector. Since its inception in 2014, the GMIA has grown from 17 categories to 25, reflecting the increasing breadth and sophistication of one of the country’s high revenue-earning sectors.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Chamber of Mines, Dr. Sulemanu Koney, highlighted the awards’ role in driving industry growth.
“The GMIA not only celebrates achievements, but also serves as a platform to inspire innovation and best practices in the sector. Over the past decade, these awards have become a benchmark for distinguishing industry leaders,” he said.
Dr. Koney stressed the critical role the mining sector plays in the country’s economy, noting that producing members of the Chamber generated mineral revenue exceeding US$5.88billion.
Out of this, he said over “71 percent was returned to the country to support their operations and also meet their statutory obligations, including an approximate amount of US$3.15billion expended on local procurement.
“Additionally, our members invested over US$31million in corporate social investment initiatives, underscoring the industry’s dedication to sustainable development.”
Furthermore, he highlighted a number of interventions undertaken by the chamber, especially its Tertiary Education Fund (TEF), which has dedicated over US$2million toward infrastructure development, research grants and bursaries for students and faculty at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT).
“We are also advancing plans to establish a materials testing laboratory and a robotics centre at UMaT. These initiatives aim to position UMaT as a leading hub for mining education, research and development in Africa,” he added
Dr. Koney also underscored the importance of ensuring political stability and sound governance, as the country approaches the 2024 General Elections.
“These are critical for sustaining the mining sector’s contributions to our country. We, therefore, urge all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful electoral process, as stability is the foundation for attracting investment, creating jobs and fostering innovation.”
The 10th edition of GMIA was held under theme ‘Celebrating A Decade of Rewarding Mining Excellence’.
Other key winners included companies and individuals recognised for achievements in environmental stewardship, green mining, local content promotion and diversity and inclusion.
The coveted Mining Personality of the Year Award went to Samuel Boakye Pobee, of AngloGold Ashanti’s Iduapriem Mine.
Meanwhile, Abosso Goldfields Ltd. – Damang Mine won the Best Green Mine, with Newmont Ghana Gold Ltd. – Ahafo Mine and Newmont Golden Ridge Ltd. – Akyem Mine taking the 1st and 2nd runners-up positions.
Newmont Ghana Gold Ltd. – Ahafo Mine again won the Corporate Social Investment Project of the Year Award, whereas AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine and AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine took the 1st and 2nd runners-up positions.
In all, the awards emphasised the growing importance of sustainable and inclusive practices in the mining industry. This year’s event was a celebration of milestones, reflecting on how the industry has evolved over the past decade.
GMIA has been instrumental in encouraging companies to adopt cutting-edge technologies, prioritise safety and improve community relations.
Also speaking at the awards night, the First Vice President of the Chamber, Mr Frederick Attakumah, reckoned the growth and transformation within the mining sector amid all the challenges faced.
He said this year’s theme highlights their shared commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices.
