New abirem: The ZiJin Akyem Development Foundation (ZADeF) has cut the sod for the commencement of 13 infrastructure projects in its mine host communities within the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the projects, valued at over GHS4 million, will be implemented across nine communities: Old Abirem, New Abirem, Afosu, Adausena, Mamanso, Hweakwae, Praso Kuma, Akrofonso, and Amanfrom.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony in New Abirem, Mr. Yufeng Li, Chief Operating Officer of ZiJin Golden Ridge Limited, said the projects fall under three key areas-education and youth development, community infrastructure and well-being, and livelihood and cultural support. He highlighted that these projects represent opportunities for children to grow, for families to live healthier, and for communities to prosper.
He noted that the sod-cutting symbolised collaboration, commitment, and the positive change that could be achieved through collective effort. Mr. Samuel Ofosu Agyei, Executive Secretary of ZADeF, mentioned that the projects were selected based on the priority needs of the beneficiary communities, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the communities and development partners.
'As we move forward, we remain confident that through continued collaboration with all our partners-ZiJin Golden Ridge Limited, the mine host communities, the Birim North District Assembly, and other key stakeholders-we will achieve even greater progress in our development agenda,' he said. He reaffirmed ZADeF's commitment to promoting inclusive, sustainable, and impactful development and emphasized working hand-in-hand with all stakeholders to deliver lasting value to communities.
On behalf of the beneficiary communities, Osabarima Asiedu Akora II, Chief of Akyem Ntronang, pledged their support for the projects. He stressed the importance of transparent communication and early resolution of concerns to enhance the overall social value of the initiatives.