President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed delight at the return of operation of the Obuasi gold mine after five years of shut down.
According to Nana Akufo-Addo, the shutdown of the mine brought severe hardship to residents of the Obuasi community who were employees of the mine.
He said the reopening of the mine is in fulfillment of a promise made to the people of Obuasi prior to his assumption of office.
Speaking at a ceremony on Wednesday, 29 January 2020 to witness the first gold pour since its reopening, Nana Akufo-Addo said in line with the agenda of his government to enhance local content in the mining industry, they are engaging closely with the company to ensure that the Obuasi Redevelopment Project places a premium on local content, with greater percentage of capital being spent in-country.
He said preference should be given to Ghanaian companies in the procurement of goods and services in the supply value-chain, from the large-value underground mining contracts, through petroleum supply, to catering and security contracts.
Nana Akufo-Addo also stated that Ghanaian professionals must be prioritised for employment opportunities, and localisation policies fully implemented to the letter.
Group CEO of Anglogold Ashanti Kevin Dushnisky speaking at the ceremony expressed gratitude to government and the Asantehene for their support in reviving the gold mine which has served as a major boost for the gold industry in the country and also has the potential to transform the lives of people through various economic gains.