Recent reports in some sections of the Ghanaian media alleged that Newmont was paying traditional leaders in return for support. This is false.
Newmont Ghana is committed to transparency and open and honest communication. This is evidenced by our commitment to a number of international conventions including the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) and the Partnering Against Corruption Initiative (PACI) with respect to payments to local leaders and officials.
Newmont’s presence brings about considerable focus on the role and responsibility of traditional leaders in the communities around our project areas. The numerous visits to the operating and project areas by Newmont officials, government officers, NGOs and many other interested parties cause community members to devote substantial time to meetings, discussions, and other interactions. Traditional leaders, in particular, are often required to attend meetings and manage issues that come up due to Newmont Ghana’s presence. We recognize the impacts of these activities and have elected to work with the traditional councils to defray some of the extraordinary expenses related to our presence.
Since 2006 (Ahafo Mine) and early April 2008 (Akyem Project), Newmont Ghana has developed Memoranda of Understanding with the traditional councils to provide funds in recognition of these extraordinary demands. In line with Newmont Ghana’s commitment to transparency and open and honest communication, the funds are paid to the traditional councils and we requested that these agreements remain public. The Akyem traditional leaders have graciously given explicit permission to that effect. Details of the agreements have been available on our web site since early 2008 (see www.newmontghana.com). The 2009 Akyem agreements are posted here.
