Asante Gold Chirano Limited (AGCL) has reaffirmed its commitment to human rights by ensuring that access to clean, potable water is not just a privilege but a fundamental right in catchment communities.

This commitment was highlighted during the commissioning of a small-town water system in New Obrayeko, in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region.

Speaking at the commissioning, the General Manager of AGCL, Stephen Asante Yamoah, stressed the company's conviction that water is not just a necessity but a right that should be guaranteed to every individual.

“At Asante Gold Chirano Limited, we believe that access to clean, potable water is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right,” he stated.

He said AGCL’s initiatives in New Obrayeko go beyond the provision of water. The company’s collaborative approach with the community has led to the realization of various other projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life.

The fencing of the Obrayeko Basic School and an ongoing refurbishment of a 20-seater modern KVIP are just a few examples of how AGCL is investing in the future of the community.
Additionally, the company has started work on the New Obrayeko Basic School Park, which will provide a much-needed space for the youth and other community members to engage in healthy activities and strengthen community bonds.

Mr Yamoah called on the community to continue working together with the company to achieve shared goals. “Our efforts at AGCL are driven by a deep sense of responsibility towards the communities that host us. Let us preserve the peace and the good relations through dialogue, consultation, and effective communication rather than resorting to issuing threats and serving notices of demonstration to seek responses to our requests,” he urged.

Nana Kwasi Nwunu II, Chief of Sefwi Akaaso is Chairman of the Community Consultative Committee – a body comprising local community leaders, government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders. He commended Asante Gold Chirano for its provision of water and other essential amenities to the catchment communities.

He also recognized the company's efforts to uplift the living conditions of the people and urged AGCL to expedite action on other community requests. The Chairman also called on community members to rely on dialogue rather than threats of demonstrations when engaging with the company, emphasizing that cooperation and communication are key to achieving shared goals.

The Assembly member for the area, Frederick Agyei, said the new water system will directly improve the health and well-being of New Obrayeko’s residents by providing consistent and safe water access to every household.

For many in the community, this marks a significant improvement in their daily lives, adding that, "we no longer have to worry about water shortages or the quality of the water we use. This system has truly changed our lives for the better."