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Draft:Golden Star Wassa mine

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Golden Star Wassa Mine, is a gold mining operation located in the Wassa District of Ghana's Western Region. Known for its underground mining capabilities and substantial gold reserves, the mine has played a critical role in Ghana's gold production. Initially owned by Golden Star Resources, the mine is now operated by Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining Co. Ltd., a Chinese gold mining firm that acquired the operation in 2021.

History and ownership

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The Wassa Mine was developed and operated by Golden Star Resources, a Canada-based mining company. Over the years, the mine expanded from an open-pit operation to a predominantly underground mining system. In October 2021, Chifeng Jilong agreed to acquire Golden Star Resources for $470 million,[1] a deal that included the Wassa Mine and its associated assets.

This acquisition allowed Chifeng Jilong to establish its presence in West Africa, building on the mine's strong production base and the potential for resource expansion. According to company officials, Chifeng plans to invest significantly in Wassa’s future development.

Operations and production

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The Wassa Mine focuses on "underground mining", utilizing advanced methods to extract high-grade ore. It is recognized for its long mine life, supported by ongoing exploration. Recent expansions include the development of satellite deposits such as Benso and Mporho, aimed at increasing the mine’s output.

Prior to the acquisition, Golden Star Resources invested $12 million in drilling and infrastructure to support future production growth. Under Chifeng’s management, additional investments are planned to enhance mining efficiency and sustainability.

Community and environmental responsibility

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The mine has consistently prioritized community development and environmental sustainability. Initiatives include:

  1. Supporting local education and healthcare through corporate social responsibility programs.
  2. Providing clean water and sanitation infrastructure for nearby communities.
  3. Implementing land reclamation and other environmental preservation activities to minimize ecological impact.

Chifeng Jilong has committed to continuing these efforts, emphasizing its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Ghana.

Significance and future prospects

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The Golden Star Wassa Mine remains a vital contributor to Ghana’s gold mining industry. With a focus on increasing production and maintaining high environmental standards, Chifeng Jilong aims to transform Wassa into a flagship operation within its global portfolio. The mine is expected to remain a key player in the West African gold mining landscape for decades.

References

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1. Golden Star Resources. "Golden Star Agrees to US$470 Million Acquisition by Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining." Retrieved from [Golden Star Resources Official Site](https://www.gsr.com). 2. Mining.com. "Chifeng Jilong to Acquire Wassa Mine." Accessed November 2024. Retrieved from [Mining.com](https://www.mining.com). 3. The Business & Financial Times Online. "Golden Star Agrees US$470m Deal to Sell Its Operations to Chifeng Jilong." Accessed November 2024. Retrieved from [B&FT Online](https://thebftonline.com).