The Government of Ghana has formally commended Ghana Bauxite Company’s plans to construct a bauxite refinery, describing the initiative as a pivotal contribution to Ghana’s strategy of adding value to its natural resources before export.
The announcement followed GBC’s engagement of an industry consultant to conduct preliminary feasibility studies for the proposed refinery, which would be sited at or near the Awaso mine in the Western North Region. The refinery would process raw bauxite ore into alumina — a significantly higher-value intermediate product — before export or further domestic processing into aluminium.
Government Response
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, a senior official stated that the government was “highly encouraged” by GBC’s commitment to in-country value addition:
“For too long, Ghana has exported its mineral wealth in raw form and imported the finished products at far greater cost. GBC’s refinery plan is exactly the kind of industrial investment that Ghana needs to move up the value chain.”
GBC’s Vision
Executive Chairman Mr. Isaac Ofori-Poku outlined the broader ambition:
“Our refinery project is about more than commercial returns. It is about building Ghana’s industrial capacity, creating high-skill employment, and ensuring that the communities of the Western North Region share meaningfully in the long-term value of their natural resources.”
Partnership with GIADEC
The project is being advanced in partnership with the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC), which holds a 20% equity stake in GBC on behalf of the Government of Ghana. GIADEC has identified an integrated aluminium value chain — from bauxite to alumina to aluminium — as a national strategic priority.
The preliminary feasibility study is expected to be completed in 2025, after which GBC will progress to a full feasibility and investment decision stage.