Our History
Over a century of bauxite mining history, from discovery in 1921 to a Parliament-ratified operation shaping Ghana’s bauxite mining industrial future. Our history is one of persistence, partnership, and pride in Ghana’s natural resources.
Bauxite Discovered
Bauxite was first discovered on Afao Hills in Awaso, Western North Region of Ghana, by the then Colonial Gold Coast Geological Survey Department.
1921
Mining Operations Begin
British Aluminium Co Ltd (B.A.C.) was subsequently granted the original mining concession to start mining at the Awaso deposit, establishing Ghana as a bauxite-producing nation.
1928
Good Start for Ghana
Commencement of bauxite mining in Ghana.
1940
First Railway Export
The first cargo left Takoradi harbour on 15th May 1940, marking the beginning of Ghana’s role as a bauxite exporter to global markets.
1941
Rail line Expansion
The rail line was extended from Dunkwa to Awaso, providing critical infrastructure development to transport bauxite efficiently to Takoradi Port for export.
1944
Aerial Ropeway Constructed
An aerial ropeway was constructed from Kanayerebo to the Washing Plant, significantly improving the efficiency of ore transport within the mine site.
1954
Mining commenced at Ichiniso Site
Mining activities commenced at the Ichiniso site, expanding GBC’s operational footprint across the bauxite-capped hills of the Awaso concession.
1969
State Acquisition
The Government of Ghana acquired a 55% ownership stake in the bauxite operations, reaffirming national commitment to the strategic minerals sector.
1974
British Alcan Era
B.A.C. sold its 45% shares to British Alcan Inc.
1982
Divestiture - Alcan 80%, GoG 20%
Divestiture – Alcan 80%, Government of Ghana 20%. 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.
1997
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.
1998
Bosai Minerals Group Era
Rio Tinto Alcan sold its 80% shares to Bosai Minerals Group, China
2010
Ghanaian Ownership Restored
In 2022, Ofori-Poku Company Limited (OPCL), a prominent Ghanaian company, successfully acquired 80% of GBC shares from Bosai Minerals Group Bosai Minerals. OPCL is a member of the IOP Group. This landmark transaction restored majority indigenous Ghanaian ownership of the mine, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history
2022
30-Year Lease Ratified
The Parliament of Ghana ratified a landmark 30-year mining lease, providing long-term operational certainty, investor confidence, and a foundational milestone for the next chapter of GBC’s development under the management of OPCL.
