Newmont has constructed a new Divisional Police Headquarters for the people of Duayaw Nkwanta in the Ahafo Region, meant to enhance safety, security and economic development of the region.
The GH¢4.1 million facility forms part of the mining giant's corporate social responsibility (CRS), which also saw the provision of health, water, and sanitation facilities, to support sustainable development and community well-being.
The Managing Director for Newmont's Africa operations, Abdul Rahman Amoadu, said the construction of the new divisional headquarters facility was under the company's Influx Management Plan.
He stated that Newmont, in 2018, inaugurated an influx study to determine the probable human migration into the Ahafo area, following the construction and subsequent operation of the Ahafo mine, and the potential impact of such migration on local infrastructure and social dynamics.
The study, according to a statement issued by Newmont in Accra yesterday, involved extensive consultations with host communities, governmental agencies, and development experts.
Following the study, and based on its recommendations, the company designed the Ahafo influx management plan, to align and meet the needs of the anticipated population increase.
The statement emphasised that the influx management plan was designed to mitigate the impact of population growth on local infrastructure and social dynamics, following the construction and operation of the Ahafo mine.
It noted, "Security remains an important enabler for development, and Newmont's investment in the divisional police headquarters, which will help to build the capacity of our police service to maintain law and order, as we catalyse economic development through our investments." The statement highlighted the company's commitment to responsible mining practices, including provisions for health, water, and sanitation facilities, to support sustainable development and community well-being.
It mentioned that the Ahafo project currently engages over 1,700 Ghanaians, directly and indirectly, and creates local procurement opportunities for Ghanaians, particularly local businesses within the project's host communities.
The statement further emphasised Newmont's dedication to value creation, supported by robust safety standards, superior execution, and technical expertise.
The company's investment in security infrastructure is necessary to safeguard the future of Ghana's youth and chart a sustainable path to development.
Newmont urged all stakeholders to support its efforts in ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the region.
Newmont, founded in 1921 and has been publicly traded since 1925, is the world's leading gold company and producer of copper, zinc, lead, and silver in Africa, Australia, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America, and Papua New Guinea. BY RICHMOND ANGEL MENSAH