In an attempt to foster stronger community relations, the Ghana Bauxite Company (GBC) has officially inaugurated a Community Relations Office in Awaso in the Western North Region.
The move is expected to enhance engagement between the company and the chiefs, local authorities, and residents of the mining community.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Western North Regional Minister, Mr. Wilbett Petty Brentum, lauded GBC for its commitment to deepening ties with the community.
He observed that the establishment of the office signals a renewed approach to corporate-community collaboration, ensuring that local concerns are addressed and that development initiatives are undertaken in partnership with community stakeholders.
“It is very gratifying to know that the new management of GBC takes issues of the Western North Region, and Awaso in particular, seriously. This office will serve as a platform for discussions and collaborative development decisions,” Mr. Brentum said.
Nana Basape Kojo Armah, the Paramount Chief of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Council, commended the company’s leadership under Ofori Poku Company Limited (OPCL), the majority shareholder, for prioritizing both investment in the mines and the well-being of the surrounding communities.
He touched on the significance of strengthening relations between the company and the local people, stressing that such partnerships create opportunities for economic growth and social development.
“I am pleased that OPCL, as majority shareholders of GBC, is deepening ties with the Awaso community and the Western North Region at large. This Community Relations Office will serve as a bridge for positive engagement between the company and the people,” Nana Armah noted.
The General Manager of GBC, Mr. Alexander Gyedu, reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering a positive and transparent relationship with the people of Awaso. He expressed gratitude to the chiefs and residents for their continued cooperation and promised that GBC would continue to operate with a community-first approach.
“The commissioning of this Community Relations Office is a testament to our commitment to strengthening our relationship with the people of Awaso and beyond. GBC is more than just a mining company; we are part of this community, and we are determined to ensure that our presence leads to mutual benefits,” Mr. Gyedu said.
GBC has operated in Awaso since 1940 and remains Ghana’s only active bauxite mining company. Under the new management of OPCL, GBC has significantly expanded its workforce, increasing employment from 465 to 1,061 staff members. The company also invested in modern mining equipment to enhance productivity, ensuring that it remains a competitive force in the industry.
GBC has outlined plans to go beyond raw bauxite exports by refining its ore in Ghana. The establishment of a local refinery is expected to add value to the country’s natural resources while creating additional employment opportunities for Ghanaians.
The company also aims to foster economic opportunities that will benefit both the community and the national economy, attracting foreign investments and strengthening Ghana’s position in the global aluminum industry.
The new Community Relations Office will serve as a hub for dialogue between the company and local stakeholders, ensuring that community concerns, employment opportunities, and developmental projects remain a priority. Through this idea, GBC seeks to maintain a transparent and mutually beneficial relationship with the community.
