Newmont Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to transparently engage with local communities to improve lives and collaboratively identifying solutions to mitigate impacts from its operations.
The Company has also called on the section of community farmers seeking new and additional land and crop compensation, among other issues, to allow the legal process to run its course following earlier mediation efforts.
Following reports of intimidation and threats at the Akyem Mines in the Birim North District, the police deployed personnel to ensure security and public order while protecting lives and property. Unfortunately, some individuals have been confirmed to have sustained injuries and are being treated.
Appeal for calm
The Company is calling on all sides to exercise restraint and good judgement to avoid confrontations.
“Newmont’s sustainability approach involves building and maintaining respectful relationships with our host communities. This means a strong commitment to direct, good-faith dialogue, while ensuring compliance with all relevant national laws, regulations, and international best practices,” said Joep Coenen, General Manager – Akyem Mine.
“As a responsible company, we have consistently met our legal obligations to our stakeholders since we began operations at Akyem and we will continue to do so,” said Mr. Coenen. “As this case is currently before the courts, we urge any protesters to let the case run its course through the judicial system.”
Background
In July, the community group embarked on a similar demonstration against Newmont Ghana to express dissatisfaction with the ongoing legal process concerning their demands for land and crop compensation and employment, as well as allegations of building cracks from mine pit blasting. Prior to this, the Company had been in mediation with the farmers led by an independent arbitrator. The parties continued to engage on the matter through the mediation process until the case was referred back to court.
Newmont Ghana will continue to focus on engaging with stakeholders to address their needs and concerns, fairly, respectfully and responsibly.
“We will continue transparent and respectful engagement with our stakeholders, including the farmers, Stool Land Owners and District Security Committee (DISEC) as we work towards resolving this issue amicably,” concluded Mr. Coenen.
