Cardinal Namdini’s Gold Project, a member of the Shandong Gold Group, has been commissioned by President Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo. The commissioning marks the official commencement of commercial mining activities by Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited.
In 2021, Shandong Gold acquired Cardinal Resources Limited, which was initially granted a lease in 2017. The lease was later amended in 2020 to cover Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited’s current operational size.
Before the commissioning of the project, a resettlement project was completed and commissioned in 2022 to move affected persons to the new facility to pave the way for the construction of what has now become known as one of West Africa’s largest mines.
The mine is projected to produce nearly 300,000 ounces of gold annually.
The commissioned project speaks to the wealth of mineral deposits in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region as it becomes the latest large-scale mining company to commence work in the extraction industry in Ghana.
Speaking Friday, November 8, 2024, before he official unveiling of the plaque, President Akufo-Addo noted that the commissioning of the project signals Ghana’s readiness to embrace a new era in the mining sector.
In his address before being assisted by Samuel Jinapor, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Ambassador of the Republic of China to Ghana, Tong Defa, Han Yaodong, Chief Executive Officer, Shandong Gold Group, Tang Zhenjiang, Chairman, and CEO, Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited, President Akufo-Addo said the commissioning of the mine is in fulfillment of a promise to deliver a brighter and more prosperous future for all Ghanaians.
He observed that the mine would bring about direct employment, foster domestic economic development, and contribute significantly to revenue.
“As we commission this Mine, and pour its first gold, we are fulfilling our commitment to creating a brighter future for the people of Ghana, including Talensi and its environments. It will create jobs, foster local development, and contribute significantly to both the local and national economy. It will bring about a transformative change in this area, providing opportunities for growth and development that will benefit generations to come,” he said.
The President expressed the government’s readiness to support the company’s efforts to build an airport in the Upper East Region as he called for the implementation of the highest standards in mining.
“It will, also, lead to developments in local infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and community facilities. I am informed of the commitment of the Company to construct an airport in Bolgatanga, to aid their mining operations, and to serve the needs of the people of the Upper East Region. Government is ready to provide all the necessary support to the Company in this project, which will, undoubtedly, enhance the quality of life for residents and support broader regional development.”
“As you commence production, Government expects that you will employ the best of mining practices, and adhere to all environmental and other regulatory standards, for a safe and sustainable mining operation. I am aware that your parent Company, the Shandong Gold Group, has been a global leader in key technologies for gold mining and processing, and I have no doubt that you will replicate these same standards here in Ghana. “The President stated.
According to the president, the company should ensure it prioritizes the needs of the community.
The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa said that the commissioning of the project demonstrates unwavering support to strengthen the relationship between Ghana and China.
According to him, China has become a huge source of foreign direct investment aimed at improving the living conditions of Ghanaians. He added that the mining company will deliver more projects and initiatives to transform lives as witnessed in recent donations including the one made to the dialysis center at the regional hospital.
Meanwhile, the Lands Minister, Abu Jinapor, noted that huge investments have been made to strengthen the offices of the Minerals Commission at regional and national levels to deliver on its supervisory role.
