Accra: Azumah Resources Ghana Limited, a Ghanaian mining company, has announced the commencement of construction of its Black Volta Gold Mine in the Upper West Region of Ghana. The milestone marks the beginning of a new era for Ghana’s mining sector, a statement from the company issued to the Ghana News Agency said.

According to Ghana News Agency, Azumah Resources has been solely led by Ghanaians and backed by committed local and international investors since its inception. The company has successfully secured project financing from existing shareholders and has initiated preparatory works on site. It plans to proceed with full-scale development activities, including infrastructure, civil works, and recruitment.

Azumah Resources is working closely with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission to ensure all regulatory authorisations are in place for seamless execution. Professor Prince Ofori Amponsah, Country Lead of Azumah Resources, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s progress, highlighting the direct and indirect job opportunities it would create for local communities and Ghanaians at large.

Mr Rob Ciccini, Project Director of Azumah Resources, acknowledged the long-term commitment of shareholders to Ghana and the construction of the Black Volta Project. The project is expected to deliver significant socio-economic benefits to the Upper West Region and Ghana, creating over 1,000 jobs during the construction phase, with additional permanent positions to follow.

Azumah Resources is committed to partnering with local communities, ensuring they benefit from skilled employment and opportunities in logistics, catering, agriculture, power generation, and fuel supply. This commitment aims to create a ripple effect of development across the region.

The construction of the Black Volta Project was initially scheduled to begin in July 2024 but was delayed due to issues with previous partners and legal challenges. Despite these setbacks, Azumah Resources remains committed to delivering the project for the benefit of the Ghanaian people. The company has expressed gratitude to the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and other stakeholders for their support.

A formal groundbreaking ceremony will be announced in due course in collaboration with the Ministry.