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Akyem Negotiates Compensation Agreements
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Akyem, Ghana
At times, Newmont is faced with the difficult task of resettling groups of people who live or work on land above gold, silver or copper deposits. When this occurs, we develop resettlement action plans that assess the fair market value of homes, land, crops and other assets – and then compensate those who are disrupted. Additionally, we partner with nongovernmental organizations to offer community development programs that teach alternative livelihoods or provide alternative land for continued agricultural use.
In Ghana, the Akyem project area spans nearly 4,500 acres (1,800 hectares), upon which 1,300 individuals live and another 1,500 people farm crops. Newmont Ghana collaborated with project-affected communities to establish a Compensation Negotiation Committee (CNC) in 2008 comprised of representatives of impacted farmers, residents and traditional authorities.
For months, project leaders have met regularly with the committee to discuss issues and requirements related to such topics as resettlement, mine site selection, compensation eligibility criteria, entitlement packages and home designs.
The negotiation process is monitored closely to ensure impartiality and fairness. Representatives from relevant government agencies and institutions – such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Department of Social Welfare, Land Valuation Division, Administrator of Stool Lands, National Commission on Civic Education, Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, Town and Country Planning, member of Parliament for the area and the District Chief Executive – participated.
Prior to forging the agreements, committee members participated in capacitybuilding workshops to learn more about the basics in negotiation and valuation principles. They also visited other mine sites and institutions, and hired a valuation professional to gather information that would help formulate the action plan.
After intensive negotiations, the CNC agreed on compensation rates for 2010 and 2011, which is a significant step toward project construction. Mine leaders, along with the CNC, will continue to monitor resettled households to ensure agreed upon steps are taken to protect livelihoods.
April 18, 2011