At Galiano Gold, tailings management is a critical business priority. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of engineering, safety, and accountability by allocating the necessary resources and assigning clear roles and responsibilities across all levels of our organization. From site-level operations to corporate leadership, we maintain comprehensive oversight and a continuous drive to improve.
Our dedication to zero harm is evident in the responsible management of our single tailings storage facility (TSF) at the Asanko Gold Mine (AGM). This facility is an essential component of our mining and processing operations, and it is managed with a rigorous focus on safety, environmental protection, and operational excellence.
TSF Design and Features
The TSF at the AGM, located approximately one kilometer northeast of the processing plant, is central to our operations. Designed and constructed in accordance with the guidelines of the Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD), it is classified as a High A Dam Failure Consequence Category, highlighting its robust construction and focus on safety.
To meet evolving operational needs and uphold stringent safety standards, the TSF has been developed in stages. Stage 7, completed in early 2024, added 21.4 million tonnes of storage capacity, bringing the total to 65.44 million tonnes. The facility operates as a closed-loop system, recycling process water back into the plant to minimize environmental impacts and conserve resources.
The TSF operates under a robust framework of monitoring, compliance, and reporting. Daily inspections, supported by advanced technologies such as drone surveys and borehole monitoring, enable early detection of potential issues. Regular internal audits and third-party reviews further validate the facility’s integrity.
The TSF complies with Ghanaian regulations and has been certified under the International Cyanide Management Code since 2020. This certification underscores the AGM’s commitment to the safe handling and disposal of cyanide. Extensive training programs ensure that employees and contractors adhere to best practices in materials management and operational safety.
Governance and Accountability
To uphold the highest standards of governance and operational safety, Galiano Gold established the Independent Tailings Review Panel (ITRP) in 2020. Comprising four industry experts, the ITRP reviews and provides recommendations related to TSF safety, the contained tailings, engineering risk, environmental impacts from the dam, and related downstream installations. These reviews focus on technical designs, construction, and operations.
The ITRP’s recommendations are integral to the refinement of our tailings management approach. Their insights have strengthened governance, enhanced risk management strategies, and informed operational improvements. By incorporating the panel’s feedback, we ensure that the TSF continues to operate safely and responsibly.
Accountability is a cornerstone of our tailings management framework. Clearly defined roles, such as the Accountable Executive, Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer, and Engineer of Record, ensure robust oversight and effective communication. This structure enables delegation of responsibilities and ensures seamless alignment between site-level operations, corporate leadership and third-party experts.
Regular reporting on TSF performance keeps senior management and the Board of Directors actively informed and engaged in overseeing tailings management. This transparent approach ensures timely decision-making and reinforces our commitment to high standards of operational safety and environmental stewardship. 
As part of our dedication to sustainability and safety, Galiano Gold will continue to evolve our tailings management practices. Guided by the requirements of Ghanaian regulators, advancements in global best practices, and insights from independent experts, we are committed to maintaining the integrity of our operations while protecting the environment.