The Akyem Social Responsibility Forum (SRF), since its inception in 2014, has championed “respectful” engagements and collaborations with Newmont Golden Ridge Limited's Akyem Mine and its host communities, focusing on the most impactful benefits that the mine's presence offers.

The forum, composed of representatives from all the communities, government agencies, and Newmont, is governed by three main agreements:

The Relationship Agreement establishes a formal working relationship between the mine and the communities through the Forum and the Complaints Resolution Committee.

The Employment Agreement commits Newmont to sourcing both skilled and unskilled jobs from the host communities.

The Foundation Agreement outlines Newmont’s commitment to invest $1 per ounce of gold sold and 1% of profit before tax annually for social development through the Newmont Akyem Development Foundation.

A report from the Foundation’s Secretariat shows that Newmont’s payments to the Foundation in Akyem alone have yielded GHS 228 million over the past decade. These funds have contributed significantly to social interventions and the development of human resources in the host communities. The Social Responsibility Agreements have been the vehicles through which social investments in these communities have been undertaken.

After ten years of impact through proactive, transparent, and inclusive engagement, the Social Responsibility Forum in Akyem continues to ensure a sustainable, mutually beneficial relationship between Newmont and the ten host communities.

Catalysing Community Development with Revised Social Responsibility Agreements

On August 22, 2024, Newmont signed an updated agreement with its host communities, which includes key amendments such as increased local content and revised targets for local procurement and employment of both skilled and unskilled labour to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

Data shows that nearly 50 per cent of Newmont’s employees in Akyem are from the host communities. The new agreement further includes underrepresented groups, such as queen mothers, in the Forum's structure to enhance diversity and inclusion in decision-making processes.

With the revised agreement, the host communities and Newmont aim to improve mechanisms for open communication, transparency, and feedback, ensuring community concerns and aspirations are addressed for mutually beneficial outcomes.

Speaking on the signing, Derek Boateng, Senior Manager of Sustainability and External Relations for Newmont Golden Ridge Limited, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and value for its host communities. "Newmont is proud of our social investment through the Social Responsibility Agreements. We will continue to work collaboratively with our communities to ensure that the investment is distributed equitably and extends long after the mine’s life," he stated.

Newmont said it will continue to serve as a catalyst for local economic development through transparent and respectful stakeholder engagement and as responsible stewards of the environment.