In their bid to strengthen the relationship that exists between them and their host communities, Golden Star Resources (GSR), Wassa Mine, in the Wassa East District of the Western Region, has signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with their host communities.
The MoU is expected to facilitate infrastructural and human capacity development in the twelve communities that host them.
Speaking at the launch and signing of the MoU at Akyempim, Thursday 21 st November 2019, the Managing Director of GSR Wassa Mine, Shadrack Adjatey underscored the need for the MoU, saying it would bring solution to distrust that has sometimes entered the relationship between the company and the communities, over what the company is supposed to do for members of the host communities.
He said though GSR has since their existence at Akyempim been engaging with leaders of the communities on employments and contracts, there was still the need for the MoU, to state in clear terms their Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR).
Mr. Adjatey stated that “though the company has been honouring its commitment in given employment and awarding contracts to the community members, the absence of a formal framework for this activity has always generated suspicion on the part of communities about the company’s policy of employment and awarding contracts.”
The three focused areas of the MoU which are all development driven, are Local Employment and Contracts, Golden Star Development Foundation Fund and Relationship and Sustainable Livelihood.
Twelve direct and indirect communities of the mining firm which will benefit from these are, Akyempim, Kubekrom, Dwameng, Nsadweso, Old Subri and New Akosombo. The rest are New Togbekrom, Ateiku, Accra town, Odumasi, Mamponso and Enyinabrem.
According to the elated Managing Director, the successful signing “is an undisputable fact that, this MoU will not only serve as a formalized contractual agreement, but will also provide clear roadmap to ensure effective management of employment and provision of platform to resolve conflict through dialogue, respect and recognition of each other’s views”.
Mr. Adjatey later advised those who would have any grievances with employment, to follow procedures laid out in the MoU for proper redress.
The Chief Executive for Golden Star Andrew Wray, on his part said the company will continue to carry out their operations in a responsible manner which will enhance socio and economic standards in host communities.
He believes that the MoU will cement the relationship between GSR and host communities, which will in turn bring strategic community engagement and […]
