On 17th August 2024, Golden Star Wassa (GSWL) site will be a hive of activity as it hosts Zone II of the Inter-Mines First Aid and Safety Competition. This prestigious event, organized by the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has a rich history dating back to 1985 when it was first instituted to promote safety awareness and first aid preparedness among mining companies in Ghana. The competition is supported by the Minerals Commission of Ghana and St. John’s Ambulance.

In a tradition that has evolved over nearly four decades, the competition features both practical and oral sessions. Participating mines are categorized into zones, where they battle it out in their respective zones before the winners move on to compete in a grand finale to determine the overall champion.

The practical session, the core of the competition, is divided into three sections: Community Teams, Company Teams, and School Children Essay Writing. It unfolds in a lively, festive atmosphere. In the Community Team competition, host communities face off against each other, while the Company Team competition pits employees of mining companies against one another. The essay competition is reserved for primary school students from the participating mining areas.

In these practical sessions, teams exhibit their first aid prowess by enacting scenarios and performing interventions that could be the difference between life and death in real-life situations.

Beyond the practical demonstrations, the competition includes an oral section, which in recent years has been held in the studios of Ghana Television, the national broadcaster. Here, mining companies demonstrate their knowledge and strategic thinking in first aid and safety protocols.

As the host for Zone II, GSWL’s planning committee has worked tirelessly to ensure the site is impeccable, not only for the participants but also for the Executives from the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Minerals Commission and St. John Ambulance. From logistical arrangements to safety measures, every detail has been meticulously planned to uphold the high standards of the competition.

“Hosting the zonal competition is an honour and a huge responsibility,” says the MD & VP Mr. Shaddrack Sowah. “We have prepared extensively to provide a conducive environment for the participants to showcase their skills and for the audience to enjoy an educative and entertaining experience.”

Mr. Carl Baker-Duly CEO of GSWL also reiterated that "Our commitment to safety is the cornerstone of everything we do. This event is not just about sharing knowledge—it's about reinforcing our culture of care and operational excellence. Every individual who steps onto our site should return home safely at the end of each day. Together, we will continue to raise the bar on safety standards, ensuring a secure and sustainable future for our company and our communities."

Join us at Golden Star Wassa on August 17th for a day that promises to be filled with excitement, learning, and the spirit of safety and preparedness.