Timeline
A Century of Bauxite Mining
The story of Ghana Bauxite Company is the story of Ghana's industrial development — rooted in the land, built on hard work, and looking to the future.
Bauxite Discovered
Bauxite was first discovered on Afao Hills in Awaso, Western North Region of Ghana, by the then Gold Coast Geological Survey Department. British Aluminium Co Ltd (B.A.C.) was subsequently granted the original mining concession.
Mining Operations Begin
Formal mining operations commenced at the Awaso deposit, establishing Ghana as a bauxite-producing nation and creating long-term employment for communities in the Western Region.
First Export Cargo
The first cargo of Ghanaian bauxite left Takoradi harbour on 15th May 1940, marking the beginning of Ghana's role as a bauxite exporter to global markets.
Railway Connection
The rail line was extended from Dunkwa to Awaso, providing critical infrastructure to transport bauxite efficiently to Takoradi Port for export.
Ropeway Infrastructure
An aerial ropeway was constructed from Kanayerebo to the Washing Plant, significantly improving the efficiency of ore transport within the mine site.
Ichiniso Site Opens
Mining commenced at the Ichiniso site, expanding GBC's operational footprint across the bauxite-capped hills of the Awaso concession.
State Acquisition
The Government of Ghana acquired a 55% ownership stake in the bauxite operations, reaffirming national commitment to the strategic minerals sector.
British Alcan Era
Following restructuring, ownership was settled at British Alcan Inc. (80%) and the Government of Ghana (20%), a structure that would define operations for the following two decades.
Rio Tinto Alcan
Alcan was acquired by Rio Tinto to form Rio Tinto Alcan. The following year, Rio Tinto Alcan sold its 80% stake to Bosai Minerals Group of China.
Ghanaian Ownership Restored
Bosai Minerals Group sold its 80% shares to Ofori-Poku Company Limited (OPCL), a member of the IOP Group — restoring majority indigenous Ghanaian ownership of the mine.
30-Year Lease Ratified
The Parliament of Ghana unanimously ratified a landmark 30-year mining lease, providing long-term operational certainty, investor confidence, and a foundation for the next chapter of GBC's development.
"Our history is one of persistence, partnership, and pride in Ghana's natural resources."
Ghana Bauxite Company Limited
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