Vice President Credits Asantehene for Key Role in Newmont Mine Peace Deal
The Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has thanked Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for mediating a peaceful dialogue between Newmont Ghana and the chiefs and people of Ahafo during the development of the company’s Ahafo North Mine.
Speaking at the official opening of the Mine in Afrisipakrom in the Ahafo Region on Thursday, October 30, she recognized the extensive negotiations, consultations, and sacrifices that made the project possible and thanked Otumfuo for his leadership. Otumfuo, whose traditional authority covers Ahafo Region, graced the event. Also present was the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah.
Significant milestone
The Ahafo North mine is a significant milestone that reinforces Newmont’s commitment to creating value and improving lives.
The mine is expected to produce between 275,000 and 325,000 ounces of gold annually over an initial 13-year mine life, reinforcing Newmont’s position as Ghana’s largest gold producer.
Officials stated that the mine has created more than 1,500 direct and contracted jobs while working toward gender parity and ensuring its workforce reflects the local community.
Gold shapes Ghana
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted that gold has fundamentally shaped Ghana’s history and economy. Ghana currently stands as Africa’s leading gold producer and the sixth largest globally.
Responsible mining
The Vice President said the new project must mark the beginning of a new chapter in responsible mining, demonstrating what collaboration, transparency, and shared purpose can achieve.
Newmont commended
She commended Newmont for supporting the government’s Big Push Agenda, particularly through the construction of 46km of the Sunyani-Ntotroso-Achetensua road. “The establishment of this new mine in Ahafo will create jobs, spur local business growth, and serve as a driver of regional transformation,” she added.
Local processing
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to processing Ghana’s gold locally. This, she noted, will enhance value addition, create jobs, and ensure that the benefits of the country’s resources translate directly into improved living standards for its people.
