Global mining giant, Gold Fields says it is committed to the usage of digital tools and local suppliers to build a stronger, faster, and more reliable supply chain for its mining operations in West Africa.

The company’s Supply Chain Manager, Joshua Donkor, made this known at the 19th West African Mining and Power Expo (WAMPEX), where industry players gathered to discuss how to build resilient and competitive value chains for the mining and energy sectors.

Speaking on the theme, “Supply Chain Innovations in West Africa: Building Resilient, Efficient and Competitive Value Chains for Mining and Energy,” Mr. Donkor, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and resilience across its supply chain operations.

He explained that digital systems are not only improving internal operations but also strengthening supplier capacity and participation within the mining value chain.

“It helps the supplier to improve their systems, and it also helps us identify where the supplier is not performing well so we can support them to build capacity. In the end, we are building a more resilient supply chain together,” he said.

He added that the approach also supports local content development by widening access for in-country suppliers, particularly those within host communities.

“It also makes it easier for local suppliers to fully participate in procurement opportunities, especially host community suppliers. When fully implemented, it improves engagement and efficiency across the board.”

Vice President for External Affairs and President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Michael Edem Akafia, also highlighted Gold Fields’ long-standing support for indigenous businesses, noting that several local companies that began as small suppliers have evolved into major national and regional players.

He cited the company’s early adoption of local procurement practices even before formal local content regulations were introduced.

“Gold Fields has an excellent track record. Before local content became a requirement, the company awarded contracts to exclusively Ghanaian-owned suppliers. One example is a fuel supplier that started with Gold Fields and is now among the top players nationally,” he said.

He further noted that some of these companies have expanded beyond Ghana’s borders, demonstrating the broader impact of the company’s supplier development strategy.

“These suppliers have grown into national and even international players. Some have secured contracts with other mining companies and expanded into countries such as Mali and across the sub-region,” he added.

Mr. Akafia also emphasized that Gold Fields’ operations are anchored on maintaining a strong social license to operate through consistent community engagement and development initiatives.

“ESG is not just a discussion point; it is central to how we operate. Our social license to operate is even more important than any other license, because it defines our relationship with host communities and our ability to operate sustainably,” he said.

He added that Gold Fields’ purpose extends beyond mining output to long-term community transformation.

“Our purpose is enduring value beyond mining. Since minerals are finite, we focus on ensuring that our presence leaves a lasting positive impact on communities,” he noted.

As part of its ongoing social investment strategy, Gold Fields is preparing a major upgrade of the Apinto Government Hospital. The project will include a modern three-storey Accident and Emergency Centre, an ambulance bay, triage facilities, as well as the renovation of existing wards and the Outpatient Department. The project is expected to be completed by 2029.

The 19th WAMPEX continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue on innovation, sustainability, and investment in West Africa’s mining and power sectors.