Sandvik Ghana Ltd. has firmly established itself as a leader in the nation’s extractive sector, emerging as the 1st Runner-Up for ‘Best Performer in Mine Supplies and Support Services’ at the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA).

The recognition is particularly significant as it marks Sandvik’s first-ever entry into the prestigious awards scheme.

By securing a podium finish on its debut, the engineering giant has effectively disrupted the status quo, validating its position as a top-tier partner in a competitive field of global and local heavyweights.

Held last Friday at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, the GMIAs are organised by the Ghana Chamber of Mines and are widely regarded as the benchmark for excellence in the industry.

The awards process is noted for its rigour; nominees are selected by customers, reviewed by a technical committee, and validated by audit firm PwC to ensure transparency and credibility.

Validation of Engineering Excellence

While the category included suppliers of various commodities, Sandvik’s recognition highlights the critical importance of technical engineering and lifecycle support in modern mining.

"We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured by this recognition," said Nuhu Salifu, Vice President of Sandvik Sales Area West Africa.

"To walk away with a top honour in our very first year of participation is a testament to our team's relentless focus on our core values: Winning Together, Curiosity, Responsibility, and Customer Focus."

Mr Salifu emphasised that the award validates Sandvik’s evolution from an equipment manufacturer to a holistic solutions partner.

"We have never seen ourselves as just suppliers. We are partners in the mining journey. This award fuels our resolve to continue delivering the automation, digitalisation, and safety solutions that are building the future of mining in Ghana."

A Benchmark for the Industry

Sandvik has been at the forefront of the industry’s technological transformation, introducing advanced automation, intelligent fleet management, and digital tools that align with Ghana’s goals for efficient and responsible mining.

The award also recognises the company’s "Safety First" culture, which has resulted in 11 million injury-free man-hours at customer sites across the West Africa sub-region.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Adjudicating Board, Prof. Richard Kwasi Amankwah, noted that the awards serve to reaffirm the values of transparency, credibility, and professionalism. He highlighted that the high number of entries this year underscores the GMIA’s role as the ultimate standard for industry excellence.

For Sandvik Ghana, this milestone sets a new baseline.

"For our technicians, warehouse and administration staff, and engineers, this plaque is a moment of immense pride," Mr Salifu added.

"It recognises the countless hours of technical support that ensure our customers' mines run efficiently, safely, and profitably."

Captions:

Pix1 – Nuhu Salifu (middle) receiving the award

Pix2 – [R – L] Kim Taylor, Operations Manager, Underground Mining Alliance (UMA), Obuasi Mine, Nuhu Salifu, VP, Sandvik West Africa, Oscar Van Etten, Project Manager, UMA