Tarkwa nsuaem: The Parliamentary Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources has paid a working visit to AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality of the Western Region, as part of its oversight responsibility of the mining sector.
According to Ghana News Agency, the visit, facilitated by the Ghana Chamber of Mines, provided Members of Parliament with firsthand insight into the operations, challenges, and contributions of one of Ghana's leading gold mines. The management of Iduapriem Mine presented an overview of its operations, highlighting milestones since its establishment in 1992 and its evolution into a major open-pit gold producer with a Carbon-in-Leach processing plant. The mine has produced over 6.3 million ounces of gold as of the end of 2024 and currently employs more than 2,700 people, most of whom are Ghanaians.
Management also noted that the mine contributes significantly to Ghana's economy through taxes, royalties, and social investments. In 2024, Iduapriem Mine paid approximately US$129 million to the Government of Ghana in various forms of taxes, including income tax, royalties, Pay as You Earn, and other statutory levies. During the engagement, the Members of Parliament were briefed on key ongoing projects such as the second phase of the Beposo Tailings Storage Facility project, process plant expansion, and the relocation of the crusher conveyor. The initiatives, management explained, are part of efforts to transform Iduapriem into a Tier One asset.
On sustainability, the Committee was informed of the mine's commitment to reducing carbon emissions through projects like the AngloGold Ashanti-Volta River Authority 110 MW solar power initiative at Pwalugu and the introduction of Dynamic Gas Blending technology to cut diesel consumption. Together, these are expected to reduce emissions by up to 18%. Management emphasized that the resettlements were done in consultation with affected communities and guided by international best practices. Additionally, the mine has invested heavily in education, health, and infrastructure. In 2025 alone, its community investment budget is projected at US$4 million, including the construction of classroom blocks, health facilities, and youth apprenticeship programmes.
Alhaji Collins Dauda, Chairman of the Committee, commended AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine for its transparency and continued investment in both the local economy and community development. He stressed the importance of aligning mining activities with sustainable development, noting that Parliament's current review of the Minerals and Mining Act sought to balance state benefits with investor confidence. The Ghana Chamber of Mines reiterated its support for constructive engagement between policymakers and industry players. The Chamber emphasized the need for a stable regulatory environment to ensure the continued growth of Ghana's mining sector.
