Residents of communities hosting Zijin Golden Ridge Limited are expressing optimism following the sod-cutting ceremony for 13 developmental projects aimed at improving livelihoods across the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
The initiatives, spanning education, sanitation, health, and community infrastructure, are estimated at GH₵4.18 million and are scheduled for completion within 14 months.
Yufeng Li, Chief Operating Officer of Zijin Golden Ridge, said the projects would have a direct positive impact on the beneficiary communities.
“The projects span several communities in the district, including the construction of football pitches, volleyball and netball courts, and panel mesh fencing at Afosu RC Basic School and Mamanso Presby Basic School.
“A high-level water storage facility will also be provided at Afosu Islamic Basic School. Other works include the construction of three waste bay walls, concrete walkways, and grassing at the Police Quarters,” he said.
Sanitation improvements will include a 10-seater WC facility at Old Abirem, a two-bay urinal at Adausena Methodist Primary School, and the reconstruction of a school feeding kitchen at the same location.
In Hweakwae, the community centre will be refurbished to enhance social activities, while the palm oil processing centre at Amanfrom will receive chain-link fencing and two storage facilities. Additional interventions include the development of a durbar ground at Praso Kuma and the construction of a CHPS compound at Akrofonso to improve access to primary healthcare.
Samuel Ofosu Agyei, Executive Secretary of ZADeF, noted that the projects were selected based on extensive consultations with stakeholders and community needs, with plans to ensure their sustainability.
“The team engaged extensively with community members to identify their most urgent and pressing needs. We are glad to support the communities and improve quality of life. We will continue to do our utmost to support our host communities in every possible way,” he said.
Osabarima Asiedu Akora, Chief of Akyem Ntronang, urged contractors to deliver quality work that will stand the test of time, emphasising the importance of durability and long-term impact.
