Newmont Ghana Gold Limited (NGGL) has assured affected communities in its Ahafo mine area that it would pursue comprehensive policies to guarantee their health and safety. Mr Dan V. Michaelsen, General Manager, Environment and Social Responsibility, gave the assurance at a press soiree organised by the company in Sunyani at the weekend. More than 50 media practitioners attended the function. Mr Michaelsen explained that Newmont regarded as very important, the health and safety of the people affected by the mine and would as such design laudable policies and programmes that would enhance their livelihood. He said the company intended to inaugurate the Newmont Ahafo Secretariat this year to be in-charge of the disbursement of monies accruing to the Ahafo Community Development Fund. The fund was established under the Ahafo Social Responsibility Programme to support Newmont’s sustainable development projects within the 10 communities the company’s operates. Mr Michaelsen said Newmont was currently focusing on expanding the Ahafo South project by developing the Amoma pit. He commended the media for supporting the company since the past five years in the region. Mr Charles Koomson, Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), said a good relationship existed between the association and the company and hoped it would continue. He urged colleague journalists to focus on development issues that would help improve the livelihood of people in the region. Mr Koomson, who doubled as the Regional Manager of the Ghana News Agency (GNA), also advised media practitioners to be more responsible and investigate all sides of issues before publishing. Source: GNA