A major gold mining project in Ghana’s Upper West Region has officially entered the development phase, marking a significant step forward for an initiative long in the making.
Azumah Resources Ghana Limited has commenced full-scale construction of the Black Volta Gold Mine, following years of exploration, planning, and recent delays.
The Ghanaian-owned company, supported by both domestic and international investors, confirmed it has secured funding from existing shareholders and has begun preparatory work at the Kalsegra site.
Infrastructure development and civil works are now underway, setting the stage for full mining operations.
Azumah Resources is collaborating closely with key regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission, to ensure full compliance with operational and environmental standards.
Professor Prince Ofori Amponsah, who heads the company’s operations in Ghana, described the launch of the construction phase as a major milestone for the company and the region.
The project is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs during the construction phase, with additional long-term employment once operations begin.
Job opportunities will span logistics, catering, power generation, and agriculture.
Originally, construction was scheduled to begin in July 2024, but progress was delayed due to legal disputes and unresolved contractual issues.
Azumah Resources previously parted ways with its former contractor, Engineers & Planners Co. Ltd., citing delays in delivering civil works.
Project Director Rob Ciccini explained that the contractor’s failure to meet obligations led to arbitration proceedings.
Following this, Azumah terminated the contract and has opted to proceed independently with the project.
Despite the setbacks, Ciccini emphasized that the project remains on track, backed by continued shareholder support.
While the company has not yet disclosed the total value of the investment or projected gold output, it has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and responsible mining practices in partnership with local communities.
Azumah Resources also expressed its gratitude for the support provided by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), the Minerals Commission, and traditional authorities in the region.
A formal groundbreaking ceremony is expected to be announced soon, in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
