The Ghana Bauxite Company Limited has announced plans to construct a bauxite refinery at its operations in Awaso, Western North Region. The announcement was made by General Manager Alexander Gyedu during the launch of the company’s new Community Relations Office, signaling a bold move towards value addition and economic expansion.
The proposed refinery will process raw bauxite into alumina, a key input for aluminum production. This initiative aligns with Ghana’s broader vision of developing an integrated aluminum industry, reducing reliance on foreign refineries, and retaining more value within the local economy.
According to Mr. Gyedu, the refinery will not only enhance the company’s operational efficiency but also increase revenue, create jobs, and stimulate industrial growth in the region. The move is expected to have a multiplier effect on local businesses and supply chains, fostering a thriving ecosystem around aluminum production.
The project has received strong backing from the Western North Regional Minister, Wilbert Petty Brentum, who emphasized its potential to drive employment and economic self-sufficiency. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private-sector-led growth and ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are leveraged for national development.
“The establishment of this refinery is a game-changer. It aligns with our broader strategy to reduce alumina imports and strengthen local industries,” Mr. Brentum stated. He also praised the company’s commitment to expanding its workforce and investing in state-of-the-art mining equipment to improve efficiency.
Under the management of Ofori-Poku Company Limited (OPCL), which acquired an 80% stake in Ghana Bauxite Company in 2022, the company has witnessed significant operational expansion. This includes;
Employee growth from 483 in 2022 to 1,158 in 2025
Increased bauxite haulage from 600,000 tons in 2022 to 1.7 million tons in 2024
Acquisition of 160 new haulage trucks and modern mining equipment
Mr. Gyedu highlighted that the company is actively investing in exploration and mine expansion initiatives to ensure a steady supply of high-quality bauxite for the refinery.
A New Era for Ghana’s Mining Industry
As Ghana positions itself as a key player in the global aluminum industry, the establishment of a local bauxite refinery marks a significant milestone. With strong government backing and strategic investments, the Ghana Bauxite Company is set to become a cornerstone of Ghana’s industrialization agenda.
