After 40 years of absence, nests of the endangered white-necked rock fowl
have been discovered within the forest reserves of the Brong-Ahafo Region of
Ghana, near Newmont's Ahafo mine. Mine employees Bin Abubakar Mohammed, Lydia
Acheampong, Richard Quaicoo and Shirley Tony all volunteered to be part of a
two-week expedition to assist 11 scientists and researchers with evaluating the
habitat and behavior of these birds.
As part of upholding our core value of demonstrating leadership in
environmental stewardship, Newmont Ghana is partnering on this nature
protection and ecotourism program with Global Conservation Research and
Education; Earthwatch UK; and the Ghana Nature Conservation Research Centre,
which is working to build responsible and sustainable business in Ghana.
The group received training from the research team on how to use field
equipment such as the hand compass and diameter tapes. Next, they proceeded to
inspect rock fowl nests for evidence of use and evaluate potential breeding
sites. The team also developed a campaign to build community awareness of and
sensitivity to preserving this important species.
Ultimately, the mine and our conservation partners hope to develop
livelihood opportunities for local Ghanaians to provide the help needed to
ensure the protection of the rock fowl while generating tourism to the area.
