The Ghana Integrated Aluminum Development Corporation (GIADEC) has inaugurated a 19 member Committee at Akyem Asiakwa in Abuakwa South Municipality of the Eastern Region as part of the preparation to commence mining of bauxite deposits in the Atewa Forest next year.
The 19 -Member Committee inaugurated are made up of representatives of the traditional council, Municipal Assembly, religious bodies, Civil Society Organization, youth groups, BNI, NADMO, Police, and NCCE.
The committee is expected to build strong community relations by working in partnership with a community-based platform with broad representation from community stakeholders, and address concerns raised by communities within GIADEC’s operational areas. Also, the Committee will act as GIADEC a body through which information will be communicated to the community.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC), Michael Ansah told the media after the inauguration of the 19 member Committee that, told the media that Atewa project is very sensitive since it is a global biodiversity significant area which is also headwater for Densu, Ayensu, and Birim rivers, therefore, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment is will be conducted in collaboration with the committee to ensure responsible mining which will not be injurious to the environment.
Okyenhemaa Nana Adutwumwaa Dokua said the development of the Integrated Aluminum Industry will bring development to the mining communities and the country at large therefore urged residents to support GIADEC.
Some residents in the fringe communities of Atewa Forest Reserve were hopeful the project will stimulate the local economy and provide job opportunities to the youth.
Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) was established by an Act of Parliament to promote the development of an Integrated Aluminium Industry (IAI) in Ghana. To achieve the IAI agenda of Government, GIADEC will need the buy-in and collaboration of community stakeholders within GIADEC’s operational areas. This will allow GIADEC to obtain the needed Social License to Operate.
Source: Mybrytfmonline/Obed Ansah
