On July 9th, Kinross Chirano announced the launch of the ‘Sefwiman Foundation’ at a ceremonial signing event attended by 20 community chiefs, state officials and members of the Community Consultative Committee (CCC).
The Sefwiman Foundation will benefit over 30,000 community members by developing programs surrounding education, healthcare, economic empowerment, water and sanitation management and various other opportunities based on community needs. The Foundation will also include a scholarship program aimed at local youth and provide training to develop employability and entrepreneurial skills for students in the region.
Since 2006, Chirano has allocated $1 for every ounce of gold mined towards the development of communities in the region, alongside their current budget for community projects and programs. In 14 years the fund has grown to a total of US$2 million that will be put towards the creation of the Sefwiman Foundation. The creation of the Foundation is an integral step to ensuring that Chirano provides sustainable benefits and leaves a positive legacy that will go on after the mine is no longer operating.
“We are excited to launch the Sefwiman Foundation for our neighbours in Chirano!” said Terence Watungwa, Vice-President and General Manager, Chirano. “This initiative will provide skills and opportunities for members of the community of all ages that will generate a lasting impact. We look forward to the benefit the Foundation is expected to bring toward developing this region.”
From left to right: Thomas Nyarko-Danquah, Human Resource and CPR manager, Chirano, Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso traditional area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, Terence Watungwa, Vice-President and General Manager, Chirano, Paramount Chief of Chirano Traditional Area Okogyeaman Kwaku Gyampra III, Chief of Sefwi- Paboase, Nana Frimpong Manso Ababio
