Newmont Ghana launches ASM Alternative Livelihood training programme 

Newmont Ghana has today launched its maiden ASM Alternative livelihood training program for illegal miners in their community, a program designed to help alleviate the hardships of those affected by the Government’s efforts to stop illegal mining. 

The program which took place at the Asutifi North District Assembly Hall in Kenyasi of the Ahafo Region is set to train 24 participants from some mining communities in the area.

The beneficiary communities include Kenyasi No. 1, Kenyasi No. 2, Wamahinso, Susuanso, Ntotoroso, Africa, Techie, and Adorobaa amongst others.

Speaking at the launch Vice President of Sustainability and external relations Madam Adiki Ofeibea Ayitevie indicated that following Government’s heightened drive to deal with illegal mining activities in the country, many more illegal miners have lost their illegal sources of livelihood.

She said based on a study conducted by Newmont Ghana 8,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries of galamsey were identified in the concessions of Newmont Ghana with most of the people wanting to opt-out if they had a different employment avenue to earn a living, however, Newmont Ghana together with some stakeholders have implemented a program to support the community youth involved in illegal mining.

She noted that they are spending 300,000 US dollars to train the pioneers in welding and fabrication by an Internationally certified training institution in Tema for 12weeks.

The Ahafo Regional Minister George Yaw Boakye acknowledged Newmont Ghana’s effort to complement the government’s fight against illegal mining in the country.

According to him, as part of the government’s effort to improve technical and vocational skills in the country, they have included the Ghana TVET service in the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).

He said the government will soon begin the construction of technical institutes in the country to boost technical education and technical know-how in the country.

He indicated that TVET is the best vehicle they have devised to produce an educated and skilled workforce in the country. 

The Chief of Kenyasi No. 1 Barima Osei Kofi Abbey II on his part stated that the program will provide a good option for illegal miners to work and support themselves and their families.

 He urged Newmont Ghana to assist the trainees to secure a job after the training or support them with capital for them to establish themselves.

He advised the trainees to take advantage of the opportunity and make good use of it.

A representative who spoke on behalf of the trainees promised to utilize the opportunity given to them well.