AGL Intensifies Exploration

ABOSSO Goldfields Limited (AGL), Damang Mine has intensified its exploration of mineral ore.

The focus of the exploration is to seek further ore resources and expand its mining of hydro-thermal ore bodies which are now being mined at Damang.

Initial exploration findings show that there is substantial ore which has the potential to extend the production life of the mine.

The General Manager of AGL, Mr Allan Thompson, said this during a briefing session with the Western Regional Minister and media personnel at Damang. According to Mr Thompson, AGL intends to achieve its production target by re-organising its operation and adopting alternative processing methods.

He said that the daily mine production averages 20,000 bank-cubic metres of ores from the pits and 15,000 tonnes from the run of the mine to a crusher.

Mr Thompson further said AGL has introduced a sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural technique known as the conservation tillage practice as part of its community assistance projects.

He explained that the technique improves the yield of crops planted by the local farmers and also reduces the adverse environmental effects of the slash-and-burn farming practice which is common in the area.

He said AGL has earmarked over $250 hectares of land as part of AGL’s rehabilitation programme.

He noted that the company plants legumes, timber species, farm produce and medicinal trees on its rehabilitated land.

AGL will review all abandoned cash crop farms in its immediately communities said Thompson. He explained that where it is feasible the farms will be rehabilitated to increase potential for employment.

Already AGL and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture have started the identification and mapping out of such farms.

He said employment at AGL is focused on local communities, with 60 per cent of the company’s employees coming from the catchment communities