The Chairman of Chifeng Gold Group, the largest non-state gold mining company in China, Mr. Jianhua Wang, and Chifeng Gold’s President Madam Lydia Yang, have ended a working visit to Golden Star Wassa Limited (GSWL), in the Western region of Ghana. Also included in the visit was Mr. Shubao Dong, Secretary of the Board.

The executive team’s visit which took place from 23^rd to 29^th of May 2023 reiterates Chifeng Gold’s commitment to its stakeholders and to responsible mining. It ended with a positive outlook on the future of Chifeng Gold’s investment in GSWL.

During the visit Mr. Jianhua Wang and the team witnessed first-hand the progress GSWL had made since it was acquired by Chifeng Gold in 2022. The team toured the mine operations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in host communities. They interacted with staff and contractors to gain insights into GSWL sustainable practices and partnerships.

The executive team also presented solutions to the current challenges of GSWL. This included changes at management level and the implementation of a 5-year strategy of automation and mechanization, adjustment of annual production, cost reduction and production expansion.

Speaking during an interactive session with employees Mr. Wang said, “It is necessary to adhere to and accept changes. Chifeng Gold will support any employee who has a firm goal and vision and is committed to learning, who is brave in hardship, and who is committed to ensure that Chifeng Gold succeeds.”

To highlight Chifeng Gold’s commitment to responsible engagement, the executive team also paid courtesy calls on traditional leaders of host communities in Wassa. They also called on the Chinese ambassador to Ghana Mr. Lu Kun, the Chinese economic and commercial counsellor Mr. Li Yaohong, the Minister of Land’s, and Natural Resources Mr. Samuel Jinapor and the CEO of the Minerals Commission Mr. Martin Ayisi. The discussions centered on challenges and opportunities in GSWL and Chifeng’s commitment to create local employment and support economic growth.

Both Mr. Lu Kun and Mr. Li Yaohong appreciated GSWL and Chifeng Gold for the good reputation enjoyed with the host communities of GSWL. They encouraged GSWL to adhere to local laws and regulations and continue to increase publicity and influence a good Chinese corporate image. They pledged support for Chinese-funded enterprises in Ghana.

President, Madam Yang explained that “our visit to Ghana and the mine site, has reinforced our belief in the potential of GSWL despite current challenges. We are confident that with the right mindset, working safely and according to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, we will achieve our vision ‘to benefit more people with the development of Chifeng Gold.”

As GSWL moves forward with its expansion projects, it will remain focused on working safely, and efficiently and surpassing regulatory compliance in all aspects of its operations. GSWL will also safeguard its social license by partnering with like-minded organizations to provide sustainable value for stakeholders. Currently, GSWL runs a pandemic preparedness programme with GIZ. The programme seeks to develop and update data to make GSWL and its host communities better prepared in the event of pandemics. Various activities have therefore been held to achieve that objective, the latest being the donation of over USD 70,000 worth of medical supplies to 10 health facilities in GSWL host communities.

GSWL is also currently furnishing a state-of-the-art model school which the company will hand over to the District education directorate for the use of its hosts communities and other stakeholders.