Management of the Ahafo Project of Newmont Ghana Gold Limited (NGGL) in the Asutifi North District of Brong-Ahafo on Tuesday handed-over the Kenyasi Water project to the chiefs and people of the mining community.
The company spent 477,000 US dollars towards the expansion of the project to meet the ever-increasing water needs of residents.
In addition, the mining company presented three motor bikes, five bicycles and other logistics worth GHC15,000 to support the Water Board to work effectively.
Works on the expansion and integration of the project, which included water drilling and engineering study, drilling of new 200 meter deep borehole, installation of a new submersible pumps commenced in the first quarter of 2010.
Other major works comprised installation of electrical panels, fencing of both old and newly-drilled wells, fixing of buster pumps as well as rehabilitation of existing pump house, reservoirs and booster station.
Mr. Paul Sowley, General Manager, Environment and Social Responsibility of the Ahafo mine, explained that the NGGL had always maintained its position to partner the District Assembly for development.
This partnership, he said was in line with Ghana’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) seven to halve the proportion of persons without access to safe drinking water by 2015.
Mr. Sowley said the system was expected to provide a more reliable, safe, adequate and sustainable water for residents.
He pledged Newmont's unflinching commitment towards creating shared value through its social responsibility programmes, especially in the areas of health and agriculture.
Mr. Divine Dugbartey, Brong-Ahafo Regional Chief Water and Sanitation engineer said the ownership and management of the Kenyasi Water System were in the hands of the local people.
He called on the District Assembly and the people to fully cooperate in maintaining the facility for the benefit of all.
Mr. Eric Addae, District Chief Executive said the assembly recognized and appreciated the support of the mining company in the development of communities in the area.
He expressed the hope that such collaboration between the two bodies would be strengthened for mutual benefits.
Mr. Addae advised the residents to take proper care of the facility.