AngloGold Ashanti unveils $750,000 AI centre at UMaT
AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine has inaugurated a US$750,000 Smart Systems Centre at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa to boost research, innovation and hands-on training in mining technology.
The solar-powered facility is designed to advance the use of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in the mining sector while enabling more mining data to be processed locally instead of abroad.
The centre was officially commissioned on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in the presence of representatives from UMaT, the Minerals Commission, the Western Regional Coordinating Council, the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly and Gold Fields Ghana Limited.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, Daniel Boadi, said the facility features advanced computing systems, robotics equipment and specialised software to equip students and researchers with practical skills in machine learning, big data analytics and real-time mining operations.
He explained that the centre has the capacity to analyse complex mining datasets generated across Ghana, reducing dependence on overseas data processing and supporting informed decision-making within the industry.
Mr Boadi noted that the project forms part of the company’s broader commitment to education and skills development. He revealed that AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine invested GH¢17.2 million (more than US$1.57 million) in education and youth development over the past year.
According to him, 224 students have benefited from the company’s Community Scholarship Programme, including 77 students enrolled at UMaT’s Tarkwa and Essikado campuses.
He added that 40 young people from host communities have also received full sponsorship to pursue certified technical training at the MacPartners Training Institute in Obuasi, with the company covering tuition, accommodation, stipends and certification costs.
Representing UMaT Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong Akuffo said nearly all the equipment installed at the centre was assembled locally by Dr Emmanuel Ifa and his team, saving the university substantial installation costs.
She explained that the centre comprises five specialised sections focused on robotics and autonomous systems, advanced data systems, digital fabrication, environmental monitoring and smart farming, as well as power generation and sustainable energy.
Professor Ofori-Sarpong Akuffo added that the facility operates entirely on solar power and is independent of the national electricity grid. She also noted that the various units are digitally interconnected to enable secure data sharing.
She further disclosed that UMaT has trained more than 600 coders and innovators and remains committed to supporting the government’s digital skills development agenda.
Representing the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Andrew Turner, and the Chief Inspector of Mines, Joseph Fumphon, Western Regional Head of the Commission Francis Annobil Jnr described the facility as Ghana’s first dedicated centre for training local talent in robotics, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) for the mining industry.
He said the adoption of robotics and AI would improve safety in high-risk mining operations, including drilling, haulage and remote monitoring, by limiting workers’ exposure to hazardous conditions.
Mr Annobil Jnr added that technologies such as remote surveillance, ground stability monitoring, equipment tracking and predictive maintenance would enhance safety, accountability and efforts to combat illegal mining.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Tarkwa-Nsuaem said the project aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s CODES programme, which seeks to equip thousands of young Ghanaians with coding skills.
Representing the Western Regional Minister, Regional Coordinating Director Rachel Sarpong encouraged managers of the facility to maintain the equipment through regular servicing to ensure its long-term sustainability.
She described the investment as a significant contribution to community development and the growth of Ghana’s skilled workforce.
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