By Svetlana Marshall

Canadian mining company – G-Mining Ventures Corporation – is aiming to produce 350,000 ounces of gold annually when its US$1.5 Billion Oko West Project begins operation in Guyana in 2027.

The company, which has operations in Brazil, unveiled the Oko West Project during an education forum at the Pegasus Corporate Suites this morning. 

Guyana Country Manager for G-Mining Ventures, Bjorn Jeune, explained that the Oko West Project, which is located in Region Seven, represents a significant milestone in Guyana’s natural resource development. The development capital is set at US$936 Million. 

Jeune said once production begins, the company is aiming to produce approximately 350,000 ounces of gold annually. 

“With a projected mine life of 13 years, we anticipate the production of over 350,000 ounces of gold annually. The ripple effect of which will be the creation of at least 1,500 jobs, with a strong focus on local employment and capacity-building,” Jeune told those present. 

The project includes both open pit and underground mining. The company is currently transitioning to mine development, and construction of the mine site is estimated to begin in the second quarter of 2025. 

The G-Mining Ventures Guyana Country Manager said the company has established a Multi-stakeholder Working Group (MSWG) to foster collaboration and transparency in Region 7 as the project unfolds. 

He said the company is also working closely with Government agencies to ensure the successful implementation of the gold mining project, which is expected to boost the economy.

 “On a personal note, as a proud Guyanese, I am deeply honoured to be part of G Mining Ventures and the Oko West Project. I truly believe this project will transform not only the local economy but the country, bringing sustainable development, meaningful employment, and long-lasting benefits to Guyana,” he said.

As part of its corporate social responsibility, G-Mining Ventures Guyana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), through the Ministry of Labour to train local workers at the BIT Centre in Bartica.

Jeune assured that the Oko West Project will offer employment opportunities to many of the trainees, thereby enhancing the local workforce.

Additionally, through its scholarship agreement with the University of Guyana, several geology students have benefitted—and will continue to benefit—from educational support. 

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton said his Ministry is pleased to partner with the gold company. 

“Fundamental to our relationship with this company is our hope, is that together we can train, develop and nurture men and women of Region 7 primarily, who will be working with this company. And, we have made available our training centre at Bartica,” Minister Hamilton said. 

The Labour Minister said he was pleased to learn of the company’s intention to train and hire Guyanese, largely from Region Seven. He said job creation is important to the development of the country, and the Labour Ministry is happy to play its part. 

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