Ahafo Newmont Gold Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to workplace safety and emergency preparedness by hosting the 2026 Zone Three Inter-Mine First Aid and Safety Competition at its Ahafo South Mine, with a call on mining companies to continuously strengthen safety standards and life-saving skills.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the General Manager of Ahafo South, Mr. Alex Kofi Annin, described the annual competition as an important platform for enhancing first aid capabilities, improving emergency response and promoting safety excellence across Ghana’s mining industry.
The event brought together representatives from mining companies, the Ghana Chamber of Mines, the Inspectorate Division of the Minerals Commission, traditional authorities, community leaders and contestants from participating mines.
Mr. Annin noted that mining remained one of the country’s most disciplined industries because of its strong emphasis on risk assessment, adherence to safety protocols and accountability.
Quoting the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, who recently remarked that “Ghana should be run like a mine,” Mr. Annin said the statement reflected the industry’s core values of discipline, preparedness, teamwork, continuous improvement and commitment to protecting lives.
He stressed, however, that despite significant progress in occupational safety, accidents could still occur, making constant vigilance essential.
“Safety never goes on holiday. It demands vigilance from every person, every day,” he said, adding that the competition was not merely about winning trophies but about sharpening life-saving skills, strengthening emergency response systems and learning from one another.
According to him, Newmont’s foremost value, “Be Always Safe,” underscores the company’s belief that people are more important than production.
He explained that employees are empowered to stop work whenever conditions become unsafe and are encouraged to report fatigue, uncertainty or any safety concerns without fear.
Mr. Annin urged participating teams to use the competition as an opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices, noting that “the stronger we learn together, the safer our industry becomes.”
He also welcomed participants to Ahafo South and highlighted the significance of the event coinciding with Newmont Ahafo South’s 20th anniversary of commercial production.
The milestone, he said, provided an opportunity to celebrate two decades of responsible mining, partnership and investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, local business development and community growth.
Mr. Annin reaffirmed Newmont’s commitment to working with stakeholders to create sustainable value while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.
He wished all participating teams success and encouraged them to compete fairly, learn from one another and remain committed to keeping people safe.
Five teams competed in the competition. They were Newmont Ghana Gold Ltd. – Ahafo South, Perseus Mining Ghana Limited, Asante Gold Chirano Limited, AngloGold Ashanti – Obuasi Mine, and Asanko Gold Limited.
Together, the teams put their emergency response skills, teamwork, and safety knowledge to the test.
At the end of the competition, the host mine, Newmont Ahafo South Mine, came first with 58.5 points and closely followed by Asanko Gold Limited which garnered 57.5 points. The third place was won by Asante Gold Chirano Limited, which had 56.5.
Perseus Mining Ghana Limited and AngloGold Asante trailed with 47 points each.
