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The company had changed name earlier this year from Asanko Gold and operates the Asanko gold mine in Ghana, a joint venture with South Africa-based Gold Fields.
Galiano said on Friday Zvaipa had played a "pivotal role" in making the mine a reality, having joined the group in 2014 and been MD of Asanko Gold Ghana from 2015 to mid-2019 as the mine was financed, built and commissioned.
He had then moved to Johannesburg to take on the role of COO last year.
"His booming voice, passion and larger than life personality will be sorely missed," Galiano said, extending sympathies to Zvaipa's family.
The company said the Asanko JV would continue to be managed by Asanko Gold Ghana's executive vice president and MD Fred Attakumah.
The mine had produced a record 251,044 ounces of gold in 2019.
Galiano said last week it was on track to achieve 2020 guidance of 225,000-245,000oz, at all-in sustaining costs of US$1,000-$1,100/oz on a 100% basis.
Its shares (TSX: GAU) hit a one-year high on Friday as the gold price soared towards a record $2,000/oz.
Galiano closed up 6.4% to C$2.50 to capitalise it at $557 million (US$416 million).
