SUPPORTING GHANA’S MININGFUTURE
SUPPORTING GHANA’S MINING FUTURE At Ghana’s Asanko Gold Mine, Galiano Gold is combining operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and meaningful investment in local communities as it advances the next phase of growth. COO, Michael Cardinaels, discusses the company’s operations, priorities, and plans for the future Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Josh Whiteside
2 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
GALIANO GOLD MINING
Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 3
GALIANO GOLD MINING
B
eneath Africa’s sweeping landscapes lies extraordinary geological wealth, including some of the world’s largest and most productive gold deposits. Across the continent, largescale mining operations produce substantial volumes of gold each year, making Africa an important contributor to the global gold supply. On the continent’s western coast, Ghana is Africa’s largest gold producer. Its mineral-rich terrain supports both underground and open-pit mining operations, and in 2025, Ghana ranked as the sixthlargest gold-producing country globally. Yet, gold’s importance to Ghana extends far beyond its economic contribution. Woven into the country’s cultural identity, particularly that of the Ashanti people, gold has symbolised wealth, status, and prosperity for centuries. This enduring connection reflects the important role gold has played throughout Ghana’s history and its continued significance to the country today. Indeed, Ghana’s position amongst the world’s largest gold-producing countries reflects a rich mining history spanning centuries, including the longstanding knowledge, craftsmanship, and cultural traditions of the Ashanti people. Beyond its mineral riches, Africa’s gold mining industry makes an important economic contribution, creating employment, attracting investment, supporting infrastructure development, and contributing to local communities, whilst strengthening the continent’s role in the global gold market. Today, Ghana’s gold mining industry operates at multiple scales, from large commercial mines to smaller artisanal operations. Collectively, the sector supports employment, investment, infrastructure development, and local 4 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
economic activity, reinforcing gold’s long-standing importance to the country’s development. Within this established mining industry, Galiano Gold operates its flagship asset, the Asanko Gold Mine (AGM). Located within the Asankrangwa Gold Belt in Ghana’s Kumasi Basin, the AGM hosts a number of orogenic gold deposits. Stretching approximately 200
kilometres (km) long and 20 km wide, the belt itself hosts numerous significant gold deposits and occurrences, highlighting both its established mineral wealth and considerable exploration potential. Within this comparatively underexplored region of Central Ghana, the AGM encompasses an extensive land package, covering approximately 476 square km.
HOW DOES GALIANO GOLD MANAGE ITS SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS TO ENSURE EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY? Michael Cardinaels, COO: “Our supply chain is critical to the day-to-day operation of the AGM. We have a dedicated supply chain team covering procurement and logistics, contracts, and materials management. “From an operational perspective, the priority is making sure the equipment, parts, consumables, and services we rely on are available when they are needed so that we can keep the mining and processing operations running safely and reliably. “That requires good planning and close coordination between our operating and supply chain teams and our business partners. We review supplier performance, inventory requirements, and critical items to identify potential issues early and minimise disruption to operations. “Our business partners are an integral part of the operation, supporting areas including mining, drilling, explosives, equipment and maintenance, logistics, and many other areas. The best relationships are those where they understand the operation and our safety and performance expectations, and work alongside our teams to solve problems as they arise. “We also source extensively within Ghana. In 2025, approximately USD$300 million of our procurement spend went to Ghanaian-registered suppliers and service providers, representing about 95 percent of total procurement spend. We also work with Ghanaian and communitybased businesses to help develop their capabilities and increase their participation in the supply chain.”
GALIANO GOLD MINING
“When I think about the AGM’s significance within Ghana, it is not just the gold we produce; it is also the operating capability, employment, skills, and local supply chain that have developed around the mine over many years” – MICHAEL CARDINAELS, COO, GALIANO GOLD
Through its established operations and ongoing investment in exploration and development, Galiano Gold continues to contribute to Ghana’s well-established gold mining industry. The AGM is a multi-deposit
complex comprising several deposits, including Abore, Esaase, Nkran, and Miradani North, along with a number of satellite deposits. The operation is supported by a central processing plant with an annual capacity of 5.8 million tonnes. Since entering commercial
production in 2016, the AGM has produced approximately two million ounces (oz) of gold. “Today, Galiano Gold’s principal mining areas are Abore, Esaase, and Nkran, and we process ore through our centrally located processing facility,” introduces Michael Cardinaels, COO of Galiano Gold. “From an operational perspective, one of the strengths of the AGM is the infrastructure and team we already have in place. We have a very experienced workforce that is almost entirely Ghanaian, with a lot of knowledge of the operation built up over many years,” he continues. Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 5
Building a Long-Term Technology Partnership with Asanko Gold When Asanko Gold began working with DataSaint in 2013, the operation in Western Africa was considerably smaller than it is today. Over the years, the relationship has grown alongside the operation, with the technology and support provided adapting as Asanko’s requirements have changed. Following the acquisition of DataSaint by Matrix Design Group and its integration into Matrix Design Africa, the relationship has continued under the Matrix name, building on more than a decade of shared experience.
The relationship itself has an interesting beginning. It followed a professional journey that began with experience supporting mining operations in Botswana and Tanzania, eventually leading to Asanko Gold (Asanko) in Ghana. When the relationship with Matrix began, Asanko had a corporate office in Vancouver, a South African office in Johannesburg, a finance office in Accra, and a developing open-pit operation in Ghana. From those early beginnings, Asanko expanded its operations and user base, whilst additional entities were brought into its DeltaERP environment. Today,
hundreds of active system users across the multiple business units rely on Matrix offerings. At the centre of the relationship is DeltaERP, with Asanko using a broad range of modules including financial management, budgeting, procurement, inventory management and enterprise asset management. The platform has also been adapted to meet requirements specific to the operation, with Matrix developing non-standard functionality such as customised financial workflow approvals for both operational and project expenditure. Matrix also developed an interface with Asanko’s EPCM contractor, DRA, supporting supply chain processes,
workflow approvals, inventory, and CAPEX reporting. An advanced consolidated reporting platform was also developed to bring non-financial information from external sources into a single view across the operation. The relationship has extended beyond software implementation. Matrix has also provided specialised outsourced system support and continues to operate the helpdesk supporting the Matrix solutions deployed at Asanko. Additionally, Asanko has implemented ppe2go®, Matrix’s PPE issuing solution, to support the controlled and efficient distribution of personal protective equipment across the organisation. The DeltaERP environment has continued to evolve over the course of the relationship. In 2024, Asanko began the first phase of its transition from an on-premises environment to DeltaERP’s cloud-based platform, followed by a second phase in 2025. The transition marked another step in the
ongoing development of the technology environment supporting Asanko’s operations. For Matrix Design Africa, the Asanko relationship illustrates the value of working closely with a client over the long term. Rather than approaching technology as a once-off implementation, the relationship has developed through ongoing support, enhancements, and the introduction of additional solutions as new requirements have emerged. Matrix Design Africa is part of Matrix Design Group, a global mining technology company with capabilities spanning safety, software, communications, analytics, and automation. The wider group was founded in 2006 and has developed solutions including IntelliZone®, OmniPro®, ppe2go®, DeltaERP, and Saminco traction drives, serving mining operations across North America, South Africa, Australia, and other mining regions.
Through continued investment in automation, communications, artificial intelligence (AI), and integrated technology platforms, Matrix remains focused on helping customers build safer, smarter, and more productive operations. For Matrix Design Africa, however, the focus remains firmly on understanding the needs of the operations it supports. The Asanko relationship is one example of how that approach can develop over time: from an initial implementation to a broader technology partnership supporting financial management, procurement, assets, PPE, reporting, and ongoing operational enhancements. After more than a decade, the partnership continues to move forward. As Asanko’s operations continue to change, Matrix remains focused on supporting the technology behind it and building on the relationship for the years ahead.
SOFTWARE THAT GROWS WITH YOUR BUSINESS As organisations grow, requirements change. should Processes become Your business changes. Your software beevolve, readyoperations to change with it. more complex, teams grow, and new challenges emerge. The right software should support that journey rather than stand in its way.
Integrated enterprise management for the way your business works. Financial Management Budgeting Procurement Inventory Management Enterprise Asset Management
Smarter PPE issuing. Better control. A digital solution supporting the controlled and efficient distribution of personal protective equipment across your organisation. See it. Plan it. Control it.
MORE THAN SOFTWARE Explore Matrix Design Africa’s wider portfolio of mining technology and specialist services.
AI-powered collision warning for mobile equipment, helping operators detect people and vehicles in blind spots and hazardous zones.
Proximity detection technology designed to enhance worker safety around mobile equipment.
SPECIALIST SERVICES Advanced electrical solutions that power underground mining equipment and locomotive drives.
Financial Modelling Quantitative Risk Analysis Non-Financial Reporting Market Research
ONE TECHNOLOGY PARTNER. MULTIPLE OPERATIONAL NEEDS. Bringing together software, safety technology, communications, analytics and automation to support the changing needs of mining operations.
+27 12 807 9100 mda@matrixteam.com www.matrixteam.africa
WOMEN IN MINING Galiano Gold is committed to supporting an inclusive workplace where women can contribute their expertise, develop their skills, and pursue long-term careers in mining. Central to this commitment is the company’s support for Asanko Women in Mining (WIM), a chapter of WIM Ghana focused on supporting women’s participation and professional development within the mining sector. The initiative supports opportunities for women through professional development, engagement, and activities focused on economic empowerment, health, and community participation. With support from Galiano Gold, Asanko WIM provides a platform for women at the AGM and in surrounding communities to connect, develop their capabilities, and participate in opportunities associated with the mining industry.
10 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
“Mining is very much a team effort. Every day, people across mining, processing, maintenance, technical services, and many other areas work together to keep the operation running safely and reliably. Our business partners are an important part of that as well” – MICHAEL CARDINAELS, COO, GALIANO GOLD
In terms of technology, Galiano Gold takes a practical approach, focusing on where technology can improve safety, productivity, equipment management, and the reliability and performance of the processing plant. For example, three radars are used to actively scan pit walls to monitor geotechnical stability. “For me, the focus is on ensuring we operate the AGM safely and efficiently, deliver the mine plan, and continue improving the operation as we prepare for the next phase of mining,” explains Cardinaels.
GHANA’S GOLD MINING LEGACY In 2025, Ghana ranked as the world’s sixth-largest gold-producing country and the largest in Africa, reflecting its long-established gold mining industry. For more than a decade, the AGM has contributed to this established industry, generating employment, developing local skills, creating commercial opportunities, and supporting economic activity in Ghana. The AGM is now entering its next phase of development. In the near term, production is expected to benefit as mining progresses to the
GALIANO GOLD MINING
lower elevations of the Abore pit, where higher-grade ore is anticipated. At the same time, Galiano continues to invest across the operation to support its longer-term production profile. The mine’s impact, however, extends far beyond the gold recovered from the ground. With Ghanaian nationals comprising 99.9 percent of its workforce, the AGM has built a highly experienced local team with strong operational and technical capabilities. In 2025, more than 3,500 people worked across the AGM and its business partner network, bringing the experience and capability needed to keep the operation running safely and efficiently each day. “I believe that one of the important things about the AGM is what has been built around the mine over that time. We have an established processing plant and infrastructure, an experienced Ghanaian operating team, and long-standing relationships
with the business partners and suppliers that support the operation,” Cardinaels tells us. Alongside employment and commercial activity, the AGM makes a direct financial contribution to Ghana through taxes, royalties, and other statutory payments, extending the economic contribution of the operation beyond employment and local procurement. “Since 2016, the mine has contributed hundreds of millions of dollars to the Government of Ghana through these payments, and we expect that support to continue to grow as the operation develops,” says Cardinaels. The AGM also supports an extensive network of Ghanaian companies that supply the materials, equipment, expertise, and services required to operate a large-scale mine. This local supply chain creates opportunities for Ghanaian businesses whilst strengthening domestic mining capabilities.
“When I think about the AGM’s significance within Ghana, it is not just the gold we produce; it is also the operating capability, employment, skills, and local supply chain that have developed around the mine over many years,” notes Cardinaels. The AGM’s contribution also extends across the 35 communities surrounding the mine. Through sustained engagement and investment, the AGM supports initiatives spanning education, healthcare, water and sanitation, infrastructure, skills development, and livelihood support. Together, these programmes are designed to build local capacity and create lasting opportunities that extend beyond the life of the operation. “For us, community investment is part of the broader relationship we have built with our partner communities and reflects the role the AGM plays beyond the operation itself,” he emphasises.
Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 11
About Us Geocrest is an Africa-focused geoservices, engineering consultancy and project management company providing integrated solutions across mining and construction sectors. We combine local experience with international standards to deliver safe, cost-effective, results-driven outcomes.
Our Services Engineering and Construction (E&C)
Geoservices
Environmental Assessment
Our Core Values Teamwork
Integrity
Professionalism
Safety
Through effective communication and respect for each other, we are able to maximize shared knowledge to the benefit of our clients.
Honesty, trust, and consistency is very important to us as a business, and in serving our clients.
We engage the right skills set, good judgement and emotional intelligence when working with clients.
Our people are our most valuable assets, making safety a core value. Our goal is: Zero Harm, Zero Injuries. This is embedded in our company’s culture and supported through Values and Rules.
Smart Engineering solutions. sustainable value.
Project Portfolio ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI, OBUASI GOLD MINE, GHANA TSF Construction Management and Technical Support Services IAMGOLD, ESSAKANE GOLD MINE, BURKINA FASO TSF CQA & Instrumentation CQA SOPAMIB, TAPARKO GOLD MINE, BURKINA FASO TSF Detailed design and Construction management ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI, IDUAPRIEM GOLD MINE, GHANA TSF Construction Management and Technical Support Services MANSA RESOURCES, KOUROUSSA GOLD MINE, GUINEA GSI For TSF Design TOUBANI RESOURCES, KOBADA PROJECT, MALI TSF Construction Management ASANKO GOLD GHANA LIMITED, OBOTAN GOLD MINE • On-site laboratory testing performed to verify QC/QA compliance of construction materials • Tailings dam Construction supervision of an embankment raise, rock buttress, decant Causeway, Rock ring raise and HDPE liner installation • Bathymetry Survey of the TSF • Quarterly TSF Monitoring Instruments Audit and Servicing to ensure a robust TSF monitoring framework PREDICTIVE DISCOVERY, BANKAN GOLD PROJECT Ground (Geotechnical & Hydrogeological) investigations for the design TSF, process plant, access roads and other mine infrastructure ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI, SIGUIRI GOLD MINE TSF construction supervision and material testing services ATLANTIC LITHIUM, EWOYAA LITHIUM PROJECT Scoping and feasibility studies for new Lithium Mine JONES AND WAGENER, OBUASI GOLD MINE TSF Geotechnical site investigations GOLD FIELDS GHANA, TARKWA GOLD MINE TSF Telemetry system installation and servicing NEWMONT GHANA, AHAFO SOUTH GOLD MINE Open pit drilling and instrumentation GOLD FIELDS GHANA, DAMANG MINE TSF Instrumentation ALLIED GOLD, BONIKRO MINE TSF Instrumentation FORTUNA, SEGUELA GOLD MINE Onsite material testing IAMGOLD, ESSAKANE GOLD MINE TSF Construction Quality Management Services NORDGOLD, BISSA & BOULY GOLD MINES CPTu for TSF and Heap Leach JONES AND WAGENER, AGA SIGUIRI MINE TSF Construction Quality Management Services TOUBANI RESOURCES, KOBADA GOLD PROJECT Geotechnical Site Investigation
+233 20 169 3909 info@geocrestgroup.com www.geocrestgroup.com
ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI, AGA SIGUIRI MINE TSF Construction Management Services Smart Engineering solutions. sustainable value.
GALIANO GOLD MINING
RESPONSIBLE MINING, RESILIENT COMMUNITIES For Galiano Gold, responsible mining means balancing operational performance with careful environmental stewardship and meaningful community development. At the AGM, sustainability is integrated throughout the operation, informing decisions from mine planning and mining operations to mineral processing, land rehabilitation, and eventual closure. Environmental management forms an integral part of the mine’s daily activities, providing a structured approach to managing environmental impacts and supporting compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. “We have an Environmental Management System covering our operations at the AGM, which provides the framework for managing areas such as water, waste, tailings, rehabilitation, and other environmental risks,” Cardinaels says.
14 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES GALIANO GOLD FACES IN THE GHANAIAN MINING SECTOR, AND HOW ARE YOU ADDRESSING THEM? Michael Cardinaels, COO: “Mining is a complex business, and operating a mine like the AGM means managing a number of things every day, from safety and mine planning to equipment availability, plant performance, costs, and making sure we have the right people and materials in place. “For us, the approach is to stay focused on the things we can control. That means having a disciplined mine plan, maintaining the reliability of our mining and processing operations, and working closely with our teams and business partners to identify issues early on and address them. “Ghana has some real advantages; it has a long-established mining industry and a deep pool of experienced mining professionals. We have also operated the AGM for more than a decade; therefore, our team and the business partners that support the mine have built a lot of knowledge and experience. “There will always be challenges in mining; however, the key is how you manage them. You need to plan well, respond when conditions change, and keep safety and operational discipline at the centre of the decisions you make.”
“Operationally, the key is building environmental considerations into mine planning and day-to-day decision-making. Whether we are mining, processing, managing water or tailings, or rehabilitating disturbed areas, those requirements have to be considered alongside safety and operating performance.” Galiano Gold uses defined environmental targets and ongoing performance monitoring to identify potential issues and continually strengthen its practices. In addition, the company is progressing towards ISO 14001 certification for its Environmental Management System. This approach extends beyond the boundaries of the mine. Galiano Gold works closely with its environmental specialists, regulatory authorities, and neighbouring communities to understand and manage the environmental impacts associated with its activities.
“For me, responsible mining means making environmental management part of the operation rather than treating it as a separate activity. It needs to be considered from the way we plan and operate the mine today through to rehabilitation and ultimately closure” – MICHAEL CARDINAELS, COO, GALIANO GOLD
“We work closely with our environmental team and the Ghana Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), as well as our host communities, particularly on areas such as water management, rehabilitation, and other activities that can have an impact beyond the mine site. “For me, responsible mining means making environmental management part of the operation rather than treating it as a separate activity. It needs to be considered from the
way we plan and operate the mine today through to rehabilitation and ultimately closure,” Cardinaels observes. However, Galiano Gold’s sustainability approach is not limited to environmental stewardship. The company also recognises its responsibility to support the people and communities surrounding the AGM, with a focus on creating opportunities that can extend beyond the life of the mine. Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 15
Global Reach. Local Capability. For more than three decades, Caldor has supported mining operations across Africa with grinding media, mineral processing reagents and specialist consumables. Through Caldor Trading and Caldor Africa, the Group combines an established international supply chain with growing infrastructure and operational capability on the ground in Ghana.
Partnerships built for the long term Caldor’s relationship with Asanko Gold reflects the partnership-led approach that has defined the business for over 30 years. Supplying grinding media and mineral processing reagents, Caldor combines international procurement with local stockholding and delivery to ensure reliable, responsive service. Being nominated by Asanko Gold as a key partner for this feature is recognition Caldor particularly values, reflecting a longstanding relationship built on reliability, responsiveness and long-term support.
Proud to be nominated by Asanko Gold as a key partner.
Together, Caldor Trading and Caldor Africa provide an integrated supply model connecting established international manufacturers with mining operations on the ground.
One Group. Complementary Capabilities.
Caldor Trading
Caldor Africa. Investing In Ghana
Caldor Trading manages the international supply of grinding media, mining reagents and specialist consumables, supported by long-established manufacturing and supplier partnerships across Asia, South Africa and Ghana.
Caldor Africa provides the local infrastructure behind that international network. With warehousing, storage, stockholding and in-house logistics, Caldor Africa can manage the supply chain through to delivery at customers’ mine sites.
From procurement and quality assurance through to shipping and international logistics, Caldor Trading focuses on the fundamentals that matter to mining operations: quality, reliability and continuity of supply.
International sourcing • Grinding media • Mining reagents • Quality assurance • Global logistics
Contact: Email enquries@caldor.co.uk Web www.caldor.co.uk
Continued investment at Pretea, including the development of Caldor Africa’s factory and supporting infrastructure, further demonstrates the Group’s long-term commitment to Ghana and its mining industry.
Ghana operations • Warehousing • Storage • Local stockholding • In-house logistics • Mine-site delivery • Investment in local production
Central to this commitment is developing Ghanaian talent. By prioritising local employment, practical training, and long-term career development, the company is building a skilled workforce that can support both the AGM and Ghana’s wider mining industry. As one of the area’s major employers, the AGM also provides pathways for people to develop their skills and progress into increasingly skilled roles across the operation. “Having local capability is very important because we need people with the skills and experience to operate and maintain the mine, and we also need to keep developing the next generation of people who can move into more skilled roles over time. “That is why we put a lot of emphasis on training and development. We have graduate training, apprenticeship, and vocational programmes, and we work with our business partners to give young people from our host communities practical experience 18 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
in the industry. Since 2016, around 700 people have participated in our vocational training programmes,” details Cardinaels. Galiano Gold’s relationship with its host communities extends far beyond employment. Regular engagement enables the company to better understand local priorities and direct its investment towards initiatives that respond to identified community needs. Its Five-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan encompasses 35 communities and supports projects across education, skills development, agriculture, healthcare, water and sanitation, and local enterprise. By investing across these interconnected areas, the plan is intended to build local capacity, support more diverse livelihoods, and expand economic opportunities beyond those directly associated with the mine. “We currently support 31 STEM tertiary scholarships and continue to invest in community infrastructure
GALIANO GOLD MINING
and livelihood programmes,” says Cardinaels. “The connection between the operation and communities around us is very important. We want local people to have the skills and opportunities to participate in the mine, whether directly with the AGM, through our business partners, or via other organisations that support the operation. At the same time, we want to support opportunities and livelihoods that don’t depend solely on mining.”
FORGED FROM EXPERIENCE Cardinaels’ leadership at Galiano Gold is grounded in a career spent close to the operational realities of mining. From working underground in Australia to managing complex African operations, each stage of his journey has deepened his
technical knowledge, broadened his operational experience, and shaped his practical, people-focused approach to leadership. Cardinaels’ path into the industry began at The University of Queensland, where he completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Mining. During his first year, he initially considered pursuing chemical, mechanical, or materials engineering, but an introduction to mining showed him a discipline that combines technical problem-solving with tangible, real-world outcomes. “Once I learnt about mining, I knew that was the path for me. It is a very tangible industry – you can see the direct link between technical decisions and what happens in the field. I was drawn by the challenge of solving complex operational problems in real environments.
“I began at the operational end of the industry in underground gold mining in Queensland, working as an operator. That early experience was important because it gave me a practical appreciation for safety, production discipline, teamwork, and the realities of running a mine day to day, which can be very different from what you learn at university,” recalls Cardinaels. Working underground gave Cardinaels an immediate understanding of the physical demands, operational pressures, and teamwork required to run a mine safely. Rather than observing operations solely through plans and calculations, he experienced firsthand how decisions made by engineers and managers affect the people carrying them out in the field.
Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 19
Your mine, moving forward.
M
ining in Africa has never been more demanding than in recent times. Rising production targets, increasingly complex ore bodies, and growing stakeholder expectations around safety, local content, and environmental responsibility are placing unprecedented pressure on mine operators. The cost of downtime, operational inefficiencies, and contractor underperformance is significant and often irreversible. To succeed, mining companies require more than equipment and manpower. They need a trusted partner with the experience, capability, and scale to consistently deliver results. RABOTEC Group provides integrated mining services across the full mining lifecycle, from project development and construction through production and rehabilitation. Combining local knowledge, operational excellence, and a proven track
record, we help mining companies operate safely, efficiently, and sustainably while maximizing long-term value.
COMPANY INTRODUCTION
At RABOTEC Group, we recognize that a mine’s success is driven by the strength of the partnerships that support its operations. Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, we are a leading pan-African mining services, engineering, construction, and transport company operating across more than 10 countries on the continent. With a workforce of over 4,000 professionals and a fleet exceeding 190 mining and support assets, we deliver reliable, safe, and high-performance solutions throughout the mining lifecycle. Our capabilities span exploration support, mine planning, engineering, construction, production, and mine
closure and rehabilitation, enabling us to serve as a trusted partner to mining companies across Africa. By combining operational expertise, modern equipment, and a commitment to safety and sustainability, we help our clients improve productivity, optimize costs, and achieve long-term project success. Rabotec has a proven track record of delivering mining and support services safely, efficiently, and competitively across West Africa. Our current portfolio includes operations at Asanko Gold Mine and Perseus Mining Ghana Limited (Edikan Mine) in Ghana, and the Kiniero Gold Project in Guinea for Sycamore Mining / Robex Resources. The recent award of a four-year contract mining and support services extension at Asanko, valued at approximately US$400 million, underscores our clients’ confidence in our ability to deliver safe, reliable, and high-performance operations. Through strong partnerships and operational excellence, we continue to help our clients maximize value from their mining investments. At RABOTEC Group, safety is a core value and is never compromised for productivity. Our Zero Lost Time Injury (LTI) record demonstrates a sustained commitment to safe, disciplined, and high-performance operations. We believe successful mining projects should create shared value. Accordingly, we build our workforce from the communities in which we operate, achieving a 97% local employment rate on key projects. Through targeted investments in healthcare and community development initiatives, we continue to make a meaningful contribution to the long-term wellbeing and economic growth of our host communities.
CAPABILITIES Our integrated mining services offer: • • • •
Contract mining solutions that scale with your business needs, eliminating the capital burden of fleet ownership and maintenance. Drilling and blasting services that deliver safe, precise, and efficient rock fragmentation. Overburden removal using modern equipment to maximize ore exposure while minimizing environmental impact. Mine planning and scheduling supported by datadriven strategies that optimize productivity across every phase of production.
• • • • •
Crushing and screening services delivered by experienced teams focused on efficiency, reliability, and product quality. Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) construction and maintenance designed to ensure structural integrity, operational reliability, and environmental compliance. Mine infrastructure development, including plant upgrades, tailings facilities, and surface and underground piping systems. Process and power plant construction, from site preparation through installation, commissioning, and handover. Flexible project delivery models, including Progressive Design-Build, CMGC, and Construction Management, tailored to project requirements.
OUR PARTNERSHIP APPROACH: Why Partner with RABOTEC Group? • • • • • • •
Rapid mobilization through a company-owned fleet and proven field teams. Flexible operating models that scale with your production requirements. Lower capital exposure and reduced equipment ownership risk. Strong local content performance and community participation. Industry-leading safety culture that safeguards people, assets, and reputation. A single point of accountability across mining, engineering, construction, and transport services Whether you are developing a new mine or optimizing an established operation, RABOTEC Group delivers the people, equipment, and expertise to help you achieve your production goals safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
Contact info@rabotecgroup.com or visit rabotecgroup.com for more information.
+233 30 291 5215
GALIANO GOLD MINING
GALIANO GOLD’S VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES VISION Focused on building a sustainable business capable of long-term value creation for its stakeholders. Galiano Gold achieves this through a combination of the development of mineral properties, exploration, accretive acquisitions, and the disciplined deployment of its financial resources.
MISSION • Provide a safe, healthy working environment for all employees. • Develop organisational capabilities to achieve business and growth objectives. • Use all assets responsibly, competitively, and efficiently.
Over the following decade, Cardinaels progressed through technical services, mine planning, contractor, and owner-operator roles across Australia, primarily within the open-cut coal sector. This varied experience enabled him to develop a broad understanding of the mining lifecycle, from planning and budgeting to operational execution and continuous improvement. In 2011, Cardinaels’ career took him to Africa, marking a new chapter in his professional journey. Working across a range of operating environments exposed him to different cultures, operating conditions, and leadership challenges, broadening his perspective on what is required to build capable teams and deliver consistent results. “It brought a whole new set of challenges and gave me the opportunity 22 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
to grow as an engineer, leader, and person. I spent over five years at a copper mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo). After that, I took that hard-earned experience and knowledge and went to Côte d’Ivoire to further my career and knowledge with another new experience of starting up a greenfield gold operation, where I later served as the general manager.” Cardinaels’ time in the DR Congo strengthened his ability to navigate complex operational environments, whilst the greenfield development in Côte d’Ivoire presented the distinct challenge of helping develop a new gold mine from the ground up. Together, these experiences required technical expertise, adaptability, cultural awareness, and the ability to bring teams together around shared operational objectives.
• Foster cooperation with all stakeholders to achieve shared goals, emphasising environmental stewardship and local community engagement. • Pursue accretive merger and acquisition opportunities.
VALUES • Caring • Integrity • Teamwork • Innovation • Commitment • Transparency
MSO Engineering Limited Driving Ghana’s Mining Sector Forward MSO Engineering Limited is a Ghanaian company providing mining and industrial services, offering reliable, affordable solutions to mines and heavy industries across Ghana. Built on technical skill and a practical approach to service, MSO has become a trusted partner for operators needing equipment, materials, and manpower to keep production running.
MSO Engineering Limited is a Ghanaian company providing mining and industrial services, offering reliable, affordable solutions to mines and heavy industries across Ghana. Built on technical skill and a practical approach to service, MSO has become a trusted partner for operators needing equipment, materials, and manpower to keep production running.
Load & Haul, Mining and Blasting
At the heart of MSO’s services is a complete load-and-haul operation, supporting mine operators with the machines and expertise needed to move material efficiently from the pit to the plant. MSO also offers support for mining and blasting operations to help clients maintain safe, efficient extraction from drill to dump.
Heavy earthmoving Equipment for Hire
Large fleets are not always the best way for operators to expand services. MSO’s heavy earthmoving equipment rentals give clients access to machinery for excavation, hauling, and on-site work - without the costs and hassle of ownership, maintenance, and depreciation.
Crushing Services
MSO’s crushing services convert run-of-mine material into sizes needed for later processing, helping operators meet production goals reliably and on time.
Labour Supply
Beyond equipment, MSO provides skilled and semi-skilled workers to mine sites, helping operators adjust their workforce flexibly to handle ongoing projects and peak production times.
Supply of Consumable Chemicals
MSO is a trusted supplier of vital process chemicals to the mining industry, including: • Caustic soda • Flocculants • Activated carbon These chemicals are key for gold processing and water treatment, and MSO guarantees a steady, timely supply to keep operations running smoothly.
Proven Track Record
MSO has demonstrated its capabilities through long-term partnerships with major operators, including an established supply record with Newmont Ghana that meets international safety standards and handles large volumes under strict corporate oversight; ongoing supply of earthmoving equipment tires to Asanko Mines; and vehicle tire supply to the Ghana Railway Authority. MSO also has a strategic fleet support partnership with Metro Mass Transit Limited, highlighting its dependability as a long-term provider across mining and transport sectors.
Why Partner with MSO Engineering?
MSO Engineering Limited combines equipment, expertise, and vital supplies, offering mining operators a single, dependable point of contact for all services needed to keep production on schedule. From moving material and renting machinery to crushing ore, resourcing sites, and supplying process chemicals, MSO delivers with the speed and technical knowledge that the industry requires.
Get in Touch To learn more about how MSO Engineering can support your operations, visit us on the below.
Website: www.msoengineering.com LinkedIn Kindly use the below email address for all official communication.
Email: msoengineeringltd@gmail.com
Civil Engineering | Electrical Installation | Fabrication and Welding Tanks Rubber Lining and Sand Blasting | Painting | Mechanical Services and Supply of Materials
GALIANO GOLD MINING
One of the most demanding periods of Cardinaels’ career came during the COVID-19 pandemic when international travel restrictions meant he remained at the mine site for five months. Far from home, he and the leadership team faced the dual responsibility of protecting the workforce and maintaining a safe, reliable operation. “It was an uncertain time for everyone – people worried about their families, travel restrictions changed constantly, and we had to keep the operation running whilst protecting our workforce. It was a totally new challenge, with problems to solve that I had never faced before. “As a leadership team, we focused heavily on communication, calm decision-making, and maintaining morale. 24 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
“Once I learnt about mining, I knew that was the path for me. It is a very tangible industry – you can see the direct link between technical decisions and what happens in the field. I was drawn by the challenge of solving complex operational problems in real environments” – MICHAEL CARDINAELS, COO, GALIANO GOLD
We put practical controls in place, kept people informed, and made sure the team felt supported. Despite the uncertainty, the site not only continued operating safely, but we thrived, and by maintaining strong morale we went on to break records in both safety and production,” he recalls. The experience reinforced the importance of leadership when
established routines are disrupted and teams are required to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. In that environment, clear communication, visible support, and consistent decision-making became as important as technical knowledge, helping the workforce navigate uncertainty whilst continuing to operate safely and effectively.
One partner. The whole technology picture. Advise, build, manage, and protect Today’s business demands more from technology, and even more from its partners. We advise, build, and manage enterprise IT environments through a comprehensive suite of services delivered worldwide. At Terra Dygital, we partner with our clients to manage the technology foundation that elevates their business strategy through integration, optimisation and modernisation, including corporate and operational technology solutions. One partner, accountable across all of it. A DV I S E
M A N AG E
Governance, risk and compliance management, AI governance and enablement, and fractional CIO and CISO leadership through the CyberSurance CIO Programme. The structure and oversight of a full CIO office, without the full-time cost.
Monitoring, patching, alerting and service desk. Managed and co-managed models that add capacity exactly where your internal team needs it, whilst your people stay in control.
P R OT E C T
BUILD
Dynamics 365 Business Central and Customer Engagement, Power Platform, Fabric and Power BI reporting, Copilot and AI. Designed, procured and deployed to your specifications.
Layered cybersecurity with continuous oversight, compliance readiness, incident response, remediation and restoration.
By the numbers
24/7
99.9%
$102.7B
2.4B+
Security operations centre monitoring
Uptime across managed infrastructure
Client assets under cyber protection
Cyber threats blocked across client environments
Talk to an advisor — terradygital.com terradygital.com · sales@terradygital.com · +1 (888) 241-3850 (CA) · +1 (888) 391-8397 (US) · linkedin.com/company/terradygital · Vancouver · Toronto
GALIANO GOLD MINING
“I learnt that a lot of what made us successful during that time and the problems we solved really had nothing to do with mining. The fundamental core of engineering is problem-solving, and that never changes no matter what role you are in, even as you progress through your career and tend to get further from your original discipline, but you never stop learning,” outlines Cardinaels. Forged through underground operations, open-cut mines, greenfield development, and periods of unprecedented disruption, Cardinaels’ leadership philosophy is rooted in experience. Each challenge has reinforced the importance of building capable teams, investing in people, setting clear expectations, and remaining composed when conditions change. Today, those lessons guide his approach at Galiano Gold, where 26 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
“Having local capability is very important because we need people with the skills and experience to operate and maintain the mine, and we also need to keep developing the next generation of people who can move into more skilled roles over time” – MICHAEL CARDINAELS, COO, GALIANO GOLD
safety, operational discipline, continuous improvement, and collective responsibility remain central to delivering consistent results.
DIGGING DEEPER, AIMING HIGHER Galiano Gold is laying the foundations for its next phase of growth, combining the continued development of the AGM with a disciplined approach to longer-term growth opportunities. Across its Ghanaian portfolio, the
company is advancing several deposits focused on accessing higher-grade ore, extending the AGM’s productive life and making effective use of its established processing infrastructure. Central to these plans is Nkran Cut 3. “We are advancing the pre-stripping to open up the next phase of the Nkran orebody. It is a significant mining programme – effectively three years of pre-stripping – and the work we are doing now is critical to accessing the higher-grade ore and supporting the future mine plan,” Cardinaels reports.
GALIANO GOLD MINING
2025’S ENVIRONMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS – IN NUMBERS The programme will progressively remove the substantial volume of material overlying the orebody, providing access to higher-grade ore expected to become an increasingly important part of the AGM’s production profile. Its scale requires disciplined planning, dependable equipment and close coordination across the mine’s operational teams. Beyond the next stage of open-pit mining, Nkran also has longer-term underground potential. Alongside Nkran Cut 3, Galiano Gold is advancing opportunities at Esaase and Abore. “At Esaase, the expanded drilling programme is focused on resource 28 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
conversion and increasing the openpit mineral reserve, which could provide additional ore for future mine plans. Elsewhere, we are evaluating the mineralisation below the existing open pit at Abore and the potential for underground development, including planning and permitting for an exploration adit.” Together, these deposits could provide additional ore sources, increase flexibility within the mine plan and support the AGM’s longerterm production profile. One of the AGM’s principal advantages is its established operational platform. The centrally located processing plant can receive
• ZERO significant environmental incidents. • 96 percent recycled water used in the process plant. • 78 hectares of land under active rehabilitation. • 95 percent MinCom certification score for environmental auditing conducted by the Minerals Commission. • TWO percent increase in the proportion of solar energy consumed from the national grid compared to 2024.
Fatigue Management, Collision Avoidance & Fuel Monitoring with Reben Ghana Established in 2010, Reben Ghana Limited is a leading provider of realtime AI Video Telematics solutions serving Mining, Oil & Gas, Commercial, and Logistics sectors across West Africa. The company partners with organizations such as Rocksure International, Asanko Gold Mine, and Rabotec to improve fleet safety, driver performance, and operation visibility.
We deliver deep detailed driving data and video insights to enhance fleet safety and driver behavior through realtime coaching, and advanced analytics. Our systems detect vehicles, lanes, and road hazards, predicting collisions, lane deviations, and pedestrian risks to help operators take preventive action.
Our Operator Alertness System (OAS) and Collision Avoidance System (CAS) reduce fatigue- related incidents and accidents. By integrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS), and Blind Spot Detection (BSD), we help prevent collisions and improve safety.
Our mission is to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities by leveraging AI algorithms to identify abnormal driving behaviors such as fatigue, distraction, or seatbelt neglect, whilst also monitoring fuel consumption to combat theft. Our fatigue-detection and driver alert systems help prevent incidents by warning drivers in real-time to enable timely intervention.
Managing Director - Benjamin Nartey Benjamin.nartey@rebengh.com +233 244 256 715
Operations Manager - Bright Obeng bright.obeng@rebengh.com +233 242 037 393
Admin - Hannah Mensah Hannah.mensah@rebengh.com +233 542 871 797
Head of Technicians - Joseph Darko joseph.darko@rebengh.com +233 244 217 805
30 | Africa Outlook Issue 122
GALIANO GOLD MINING
Reliable performance
SME – Technical Expertise with Practical Solutions SME is a specialist mine geotechnical consulting business striving to provide clients with premium services.
for all mining applications
SME was established to provide high-end technical expertise with a practical application approach. We are a small group of experts providing the best practical solutions to technical problems. We are not focused on keeping a team busy but on helping the client determine what is critical and then delivering.
Meet us @ We work across all commodities anywhere in the world. SME – Technical Expertise with Practical Solutions Contact us: enquiries@smegeotechnical.com.au Cell +61 412 027 583 Whats App +61 412 027 583
ore from multiple deposits and was enhanced by the addition of a secondary crushing circuit in late 2025. “We already have the processing plant and much of the infrastructure in place, so the opportunity is to develop additional sources of ore, sequence them effectively through the mine plan, and make the best use of the infrastructure we already have.” Realising this potential will require disciplined execution whilst maintaining reliable day-to-day production. “We need to continue delivering from our existing mining areas and maintain reliable performance through the processing plant. That means staying disciplined around mine planning and sequencing, equipment availability, maintenance and plant performance, and working closely with our teams and business partners to keep the operation
For West Africa please contact Resitech Ltd.
www.resitech-gh.com / sales@resitech-gh.com / www.kaeser.com
running consistently.” Safety remains fundamental throughout this work. Cardinaels’ immediate priorities are to execute the mine plan, advance Nkran Cut 3, maintain reliable mining and processing performance, and continue advancing opportunities at Esaase and Abore for potential inclusion in future mine plans. Underpinning every stage of this work are the people who translate the mine plan into safe and reliable operations. The AGM has operated for more than a decade, during which time Galiano Gold has assembled a highly experienced Ghanaian workforce and built long-standing relationships with the contractors, suppliers, and communities surrounding the mine. “Mining is very much a team effort. Every day, people across mining, processing, maintenance, technical services, and many other areas work
together to keep the operation running safely and reliably. Our business partners are an important part of that as well. “We have a lot of work ahead of us as we move into the next phase of the AGM, but we also have a strong operating foundation from which to build. From my perspective, the focus is on continuing to develop our people, improving how we operate, and making sure we execute well on the opportunities in front of us,” Cardinaels concludes.
Tel: Toll-Free (North America): 1-855-246-7341 info@galianogold.com
galianogold.com Africa Outlook Issue 122 | 31
Toll-Free (N. America): 1-855-246-7341 info@galianogold.com
galianogold.com
PRODUCED BY AFRICA OUTLOOK MAGAZINE