The Asante Gold Chirano Limited has launched an afforestation project aimed at reclaiming more than 800 hectares of degraded lands in the Tano-Suraw forest reserve of the Western Region.
The project formed part of the company’s long-term commitment to responsible mining and environmental protection under its reforestation offset agreement with the Forestry Commission to restore areas degraded through its mining activities.
The programme is also expected to create over 350 jobs for people in the company’s catchment communities attract an investment of $7 million over a 10-year period.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Stephen Asante Yamoah, General Manager of Asante Gold Chirano, said the company recognised that economic progress and environmental protection must go together for the benefit of present and future generations.
He said the company was, therefore, committing significant financial and technical resources to the project as part of a broader sustainability agenda.
He explained that the initiative extended beyond planting trees to rebuilding wildlife habitat, restoring ecosystem, protecting water sheds, improving biodiversity, and supporting global efforts to address climate change through carbon sequestration.
Mr Wilbert Petty Brentum, the Western North Regional Minister, commended Asante Gold Chirano and the Forestry Commission for the initiative, saying it was a major contribution to environmental restoration and community development in the region.
He was hopeful that the project would go a long to improve upon the lives of the people, while protecting the region’s natural resources.
Madam Valerie Nassah, Director of Operations and Plantation at the Forestry Commission, noted that the Tano-Suraw Forest Reserve was one of the key forest landscapes within the company’s operational area identified for restoration under the reforestation offset programme.
She said the project reflected the essence of the agreement between the Commission and the company, which was to ensure that areas affected by mining-related activities were compensated for through deliberate forest restoration, biodiversity recovery, and long-term environmental protection.
Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, Chief of Bonzain and Acting President of the Wiawso Traditional Council, who chaired the event, urged farmers who would benefit from the restoration offset programme to commit fully to the work and treat the project as an opportunity to contribute their quota to the restoration of the Tano-Suraw forest reserve.
He said the success of the project would depend on dedication, discipline and strong community ownership.
He further called on communities such as Etwebo, Nsuansua, Akoto, Paboase, and Anglo to support the project in order to protect the trees to be planted.
GNA
