AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine has won the 2025 Zone One Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition, thus qualifying for the Nationals. The event, which was hosted by Ghana Manganese Company (GMC), brought together four mining firms in Zone One in a spirited display of emergency preparedness, teamwork, and safety knowledge.
Themed “Every Moment Is an Ambush – Think Safety at All Times”, this year’s contest highlighted the critical importance of proactive safety culture in the mining industry. AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine showcased exceptional first aid capabilities and situational response skills as well as in-depth knowledge on the minerals and mining regulations to outshine their competitors.
A Platform to Reinforce Safety Culture
Speaking at the event, Mr. Joseph Ampong, General Manager of Ghana Manganese Company, reiterated the significance of the competition. “The Inter-Mines Safety & First Aid Competition is a unique programme designed to demonstrate our commitment to safe work obligations,” he said. He emphasized that safety remains the company’s top priority: “Our goal is to mine safely, protecting lives and property while creating value for all our stakeholders.”
His sentiments were echoed by Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, who lauded the competition as the industry’s “premier health and safety event”, and a proud 48-year tradition that reflects the mining sector’s continuous improvement in safety practices. Dr. Ashigbey acknowledged the evolving safety landscape, noting the sector’s decline in fatal injuries from 7 in 2023 to 3 in 2024, but also cautioned against complacency given the rise in serious and first aid cases.
Commitment to SAFE Mining
Reiterating the collective vision of the industry, a statement issued during the event urged all participants and the public to take personal responsibility for safety. “Never, never ever leave your safety in someone’s hands,” the statement emphasized.
The competition also served as a platform to affirm the mining sector’s role in national development. Dr. Ashigbey outlined the sector’s macroeconomic contributions, highlighting a 159% increase in tax payments between 2022 and 2024, as well as a $28 million investment in Corporate Social Investment initiatives.
Engaging Communities and Inspiring Future Leaders
A notable element of the event was its outreach beyond the mine gates. The Chamber’s ongoing student safety essay competitions and the inclusion of community teams, particularly women, demonstrated its commitment to fostering grassroots safety education. “A mine is not truly safe unless the surrounding community is also safe,” Dr. Ashigbey emphasized.
Conclusion
The 2025 Zone One Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition was more than a contest, it was a reaffirmation of the mining industry’s collective dedication to a culture of safety. As AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine celebrates its well-earned victory, the real triumph lies in the strengthened preparedness and lifesaving skills each participant brings back to their respective operations and communities.
Ayekoo to all teams, and a special congratulations to AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine for leading the charge in this year’s zone one safety excellence.