The Chief, Elders, and Youth of the Huniso Community have expressed strong support for the renewal of Gold Fields Ghana’s mining lease, calling on the Government of Ghana to grant the company a new 20-year lease extension.
Addressing the media during a press conference, the community leaders described Huniso as one of the key catchment communities on the Apinto Land where Gold Fields operates, stressing that the company’s presence has brought significant development and opportunities to the area over the years.
According to the community, Gold Fields Ghana has contributed to several developmental projects in Huniso and surrounding communities, including social interventions that have positively impacted the lives of residents. They also highlighted the employment opportunities the mine has created for many community members, helping improve livelihoods and support local economic growth.
The Chief of the Huniso Community has appealed to President
John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana to grant Gold Fields Ghana a new 20-year lease extension.
Speaking at a press conference today, the Chief, Nana Nvida praised
Gold Fields Ghana for its tremendous contribution towards community development and the employment opportunities given to many youth within the area.
He stated that renewing the mining lease would bring more development projects and benefits to the catchment communities on the Apinto Land. The Chief also urged Gold Fields to revive community training programs for undergraduates, which previously helped equip young people with skills and employment opportunities at the mine.
Augustine Kwaw, Apinto Youth President, speaking on behalf of the youth of Huniso during today’s press conference, stated that the youth of the community have taken a firm stand to join forces with Gold Fields Ghana in appealing to the Government of Ghana to extend the company’s mining lease.
According to him, the youth believe the lease renewal will continue to create opportunities and development for the community and surrounding catchment areas.
According to the community, Gold Fields has contributed immensely to the development of Huniso through community projects, employment opportunities, and social interventions that continue to improve livelihoods within the area.
The community believes the renewal of the lease will help sustain development, create more jobs, and strengthen the long-standing relationship between the mining company and the people on the Apinto Land.
The Chief and opinion leaders therefore appealed to the government and relevant stakeholders to consider the benefits the mining company has brought to the area and approve the lease renewal to enable Gold Fields Ghana continue its operations and developmental support within the community.
They further called for continued collaboration between the company, government, and host communities to ensure sustainable development and peaceful coexistence in the mining area.
SOURCE: Backstage Convo
