UE: Earl International employs 80% of workforce from host communities – PRO

The Public Relations Officer of Earl International Group (GH) Gold Limited, Albert Azongo, has disclosed that approximately 80 percent of the company’s permanent workforce is made up of people from host communities in the Talensi District.

Speaking during a working visit by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to the company’s operational site at Gbane, Mr. Azongo highlighted the firm’s strong commitment to local employment and capacity development.

According to him, the company currently employs about 1,113 Ghanaians as permanent staff, excluding casual workers, with the number expected to rise as operations expand. He noted that a significant portion of these employees are drawn from surrounding communities such as Gbane, Datuko, Gaare, Sheaga, Tindongo, and Tongo.

Mr. Azongo explained that the company’s employment policy focuses on empowering locals through training and skills development. He revealed that many workers who initially joined as general labourers have progressed into technical roles after receiving certification from the Minerals Commission.

He stressed that Earl International Gold’s broader objective is to promote economic growth and social development through responsible mining practices. However, he admitted that 2025 posed serious challenges to operations due to illegal mining activities, flooding, and security concerns, which affected overall production.

Despite these setbacks, the company processed over 200,000 tonnes of ore and produced slightly more than 295 kilograms of gold in 2025. Looking ahead, it projects a major increase in output in 2026, with plans to mine over 449,000 tonnes of ore and expand underground operations.

Mr. Azongo also announced ongoing infrastructure developments, including a new processing plant with a daily capacity of 5,000 tonnes, additional mining shafts, and an 8-megawatt solar power facility as part of a long-term renewable energy plan targeting 30 megawatts.

On corporate social responsibility, he indicated that the company is investing in community development projects such as a school, boreholes, and a 60-bed hospital expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2026. He noted that these initiatives are aimed at improving living standards and access to healthcare in the area.

Additionally, the company has built accommodation for nurses, supported local health authorities, and collaborated with the district assembly to assist vulnerable groups.

In terms of revenue contribution, Earl International Gold paid over GH¢22 million in corporate taxes, VAT, and duties in 2025, alongside more than GH¢30 million in royalties to the government.

However, illegal mining remains a major concern. Mr. Azongo warned of increasing encroachment on the company’s concession, including the use of hazardous chemicals like cyanide and unauthorized access to underground shafts, which pose serious environmental and safety risks.

He called for stronger government intervention to curb illegal mining activities, emphasizing that protecting mining concessions is essential for sustaining operations and safeguarding investments.

Mr. Azongo further revealed that the company has taken steps to integrate former small-scale miners into its operations by offering them a two percent share of gross production, paid biannually, as part of efforts to promote inclusivity and reduce illegal mining.