Newmont Achieves Commercial Production at Ghana’s Ahafo North Mine

Newmont Corporation has reached a major milestone with the official commencement of commercial production at its Ahafo North mine in Afrisipakrom, Ghana. This achievement marks one of the most significant new gold developments in West Africa and represents the successful completion of years of investment in exploration, infrastructure, and human capital. Following its first gold pour on September 19, the Ahafo North project now transitions into full-scale operations, underscoring Newmont’s enduring commitment to Ghana’s mining landscape and its strategic importance within the company’s global portfolio.

The Ahafo North mine is expected to produce approximately 50,000 ounces of gold in 2025, with production projected to rise sharply to between 275,000 and 325,000 ounces annually over the next five years. With an estimated mine life of around 13 years, the project is poised to become a central pillar of Newmont’s operations in West Africa. Situated about 50 kilometers from the Ahafo South mine, Ahafo North benefits from shared infrastructure and operational expertise, allowing for greater cost efficiency and streamlined logistics.

During its development phase, the project generated roughly 4,500 construction jobs and now sustains over 1,500 ongoing positions, including 560 permanent employees and 1,000 contracted workers. This significant employment contribution not only boosts local economies but also supports the transfer of skills and technical knowledge to Ghana’s workforce. Ahafo North’s commissioning comes shortly after Newmont’s divestment of its Akyem mine in April 2025, reaffirming the company’s long-term commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices in the region. Outgoing CEO Tom Palmer commended the milestone as a testament to the company’s teamwork, disciplined execution, and focus on long-term value creation.

The successful launch of Ahafo North reinforces Ghana’s position as a leading gold producer in Africa and highlights the country’s attractiveness to international mining investors. The project’s emphasis on sustainability, community development, and operational efficiency reflects a broader trend toward more responsible resource extraction in Africa’s mining sector. Over time, Ahafo North is expected to stimulate regional growth, enhance Ghana’s export earnings, and strengthen Newmont’s role as a key partner in advancing Africa’s mining future.

Mini-Glossary

• Commercial Production: The phase when a mine reaches consistent, sustainable output levels after testing and commissioning.
• Gold Pour: The process of melting and casting extracted gold into bars or other forms for refining and sale.
• Divestment: The sale or disposal of an asset or business interest by a company.
• Sustainable Mining: Mining practices that minimize environmental impact while promoting local community welfare and economic development.