Hon. George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resource, responsible for Mining has reserved special commendations for the chiefs, elders and residents in the catchment communities of the US$850 million Newmont Ahafo-North Project for granting full-backing to Newmont Ghana’s expansion project in the area.
At a meeting on Monday, July 18, 2022, the traditional authorities declared their unanimous support for the project with the premise that the communities will experience significant development from the project.
Reacting to what he deems to be refreshing news, Hon. Duker 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 and whose core interest is to see the development of their area.
Hon. George Mireku Duker who has been the government’s lead with respect to discussions on the project described it 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”, he stated
He said that with all major challenges now cleared, Newmont will soon begin operations in the areas granted by the government.
Hon. George Mireku Duker disclosed that government and Newmont will deliberate on the best possible means of 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, Hon. 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 won’t 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, Hon. George Boakye announced that the government has released GHC45million as compensation for all persons who will be affected by 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.
Source: Mybrytnewsroom.com/Kwabena Nyarko Abronoma
