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Newmont Ahafo North Project lauded

Chiefs, elders and residents in the catchment communities of Ahafo have lauded Newmont new Ahafo North Project for granting full-backing of US$850 million for the expansion project in the area.

Date Created : 7/21/2022 12:00:00 AM : Story Author : Ghanadistricts.com

Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resource, Mr George Mireku Duker responsible for Mining professed his admiration for the visionary and exemplary qualities of leadership exhibited by the traditional authorities.

He noted that, they have not just unanimously agreed for the project to commence, but have also rallied their residents behind it, the chiefs have etched their names in the history of their communities as consummate rulers who are concerned whose core interest is to see the development of their area.

Mr Duker who has been the government’s lead with respect to discussions on the project, described as exciting that finally cool heads have prevailed. He argues that the arrival of Newmont will spur growth in the area as the firm has assured of its commitment to embarking on developmental projects in the area.

“I believe we were looking out for the good of it so it is important that we all have a common ground. This is for the future of our children and grandchildren so this is a good step. I know the youth of Ahafo will support the chiefs to ensure that this project becomes a success.

I want to thank the regional minister, chiefs and everyone for rallying behind this project, with all major challenges now cleared, Newmont will soon begin operations in the areas granted by the government.” he stated.

Mr Mireku Duker disclosed that the government and Newmont will deliberate on best-possible means ensuring local representation in the project as well as regulation of activities.

Speaking on behalf of the leaders and residents of Ahafo North, Nana Ansah Adu Baah II, President of Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs disclosed that after receiving comprehensive briefings on the project and analyzing the far-reaching benefits, it will bring to the communities, the towns have chosen to collaborate with the management of Newmont of the Ministry of Lands to undertake the project.

He rallied the youth and residents in the area, noting that the project will bring jobs to the youth in the area and cure the headache of unemployment which sometimes leads to the youth engaging in some social vices. He spoke glowingly of the sector Minister, Samuel A. Jinapor and his Deputy for displaying leadership and understanding in engaging the chiefs and the communities to have their buy-in on the project.

“We want to tell Newmont to start the project. We have no issue with anyone and we want peace and development in the area so please come and start. It’s unfortunate we encountered some issues but it’s time we put those things behind us and support the project.

“We have resolved to deal with the issues amicably and I don’t think we are ever going to face such challenges again. We agree totally and we know this is the best for our communities,” he said. The Ahafo Regional Minister, Mr George Boakye announced that the government has released GHC 45 million as compensation for all persons who will be affected in the expansion project.

He assured that disbursement of the funds will be made once the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council is furnished with the report from the committee.