GIADEC Inaugurates 19-Member Liaison Committee as Bauxite Exploration Nears in Atwima Mponua

GIADEC Inaugurates 19-Member Liaison Committee as Bauxite Exploration Nears in Atwima Mponua

By: Justice Baffour Awuah | DailyWatchGH.com

The Ghana Integrated Aluminum Development Corporation (GIADEC) has inaugurated a 19-member District-GIADEC Committee in the Atwima Mponua District as part of preparatory measures toward the commencement of bauxite exploration activities in the area.

The inauguration, held last Thursday, is intended to strengthen cooperation, community engagement, and effective communication between GIADEC and the Atwima Mponua District Assembly as the Corporation advances its exploration agenda.

Before the inauguration, the outgoing District-GIADEC Committee, which had successfully completed its mandate, was formally dissolved at a brief meeting. The exercise was led by Dr. Richmond Antwi-Bediako, Senior Manager in charge of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Health & Safety, alongside Mr. Isaac Annan Riverson, Esq., Senior Manager (Legal), both representing GIADEC.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Antwi-Bediako underscored GIADEC’s commitment to responsible mining practices and stakeholder inclusion.

“Community participation and environmental responsibility remain central to GIADEC’s operations. The committee serves as a critical bridge to ensure that exploration activities are carried out transparently and in line with best international standards,” he stated.

On his part, Mr. Riverson emphasized the legal and governance framework guiding the Corporation’s engagement with host communities.

“The District,GIADEC Committee plays a key role in safeguarding mutual understanding, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring that all activities comply with Ghana’s legal and regulatory requirements,” he noted.

Addressing the gathering, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Mponua, Hon. Ibrahim Issahak, welcomed the inauguration and assured GIADEC of the Assembly’s full cooperation.

“We are optimistic that this committee will help deepen trust between the Corporation and our communities. As a district, we are committed to ensuring that any mineral exploration translates into real socio-economic benefits for our people,” Hon. Issahak said.

He further urged members of the new committee to serve with integrity, fairness, and the collective interest of the district at heart.

Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated committee, its Chairman, Dr. Babaginda Adams, expressed appreciation to GIADEC and the District Assembly for the confidence reposed in the team. He pledged the committee’s unwavering support for the exploration process.

“We are ready to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure responsible leadership, constructive engagement, and sustainable outcomes that will positively impact the people of Atwima Mponua,” Dr. Adams assured.

The District,GIADEC Committee is expected to serve as a liaison body, facilitating dialogue between GIADEC, the District Assembly, traditional authorities, and local communities, while helping to address concerns related to environmental protection, land use, and community development.

Stakeholders expressed confidence that the new committee will foster a productive partnership that balances mineral resource development with sustainable growth and community welfare as bauxite exploration activities draw closer.