Thursday, 25th May 2006 (1340 views)

Newmont Ghana Gold and Gold Fields Ghana have signed a new responsible mining agreement, aimed at serving the needs of local communities.

The two mining companies signed a memorandum of understanding to create the Ghana Responsible Mining Alliance (GRMA) yesterday (May 24) at the North Ridge Alisa Hotel in Accra.

The new alliance aims to promote beneficial and interactive relationships between the mining industry, local communities and governments, as well as disseminate best mining practice.

More than $9.5 million will be made available for this and to develop viable economic opportunities in Ghana mining districts such as Brong Ahafo and Wassa West.

Bill Zisch, Newmont's vice president of Africa Operations, said the objective was to ensure mining in Ghana created value for people living near the operations, Ghana Web reports.

"Our involvement with and commitment to this Alliance is consistent with our values, which are demanding leadership in safety, stewardship of the environment and social responsibility," he said.

The GRMA commits the signatory companies to ensuring local capacity building for governance structures; providing economic chances for local businesses; and promoting best practice in terms of resettlement, security and other issues.

Mining is currently the largest business in Ghana in terms of export earnings. Gold Fields Ghana is the largest gold miner in the west African nation, while Newmont is the world's biggest gold producer.

 

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