BY Daniel Bampoe
Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, a key player in the mining sector and a subsidiary of the global Zijin Mining Group, has strengthened its footprint in agricultural development with a significant donation to support 2025 Farmers Day celebrations in the Eastern Region.
The company’s latest intervention signals an expanding corporate strategy aimed at bridging mining operations with sustainable community livelihood initiatives.
The Birim North District and its surrounding communities have, for years, grappled with the complex interplay between mining activities and agricultural livelihoods. As large-scale mining expanded, community leaders and local farmers consistently called for deeper collaboration to ensure that mining’s economic benefits translate into improved farming productivity and rural development.
Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, which operates the Newmont-acquired Golden Ridge concession, has over time positioned itself as a partner in community development.
In previous years, the company has contributed to infrastructural projects, skills training, and livelihood support schemes aimed at cushioning the socioeconomic impact of mining on rural populations.
This year’s intervention, however, reflects a more targeted approach to strengthening the agricultural value chain—an area considered vital to sustaining the regional economy long after mining operations wind down.
Support Worth Over USD 18,000 for Farmers Day Celebrations
At a brief ceremony in New Abirem on December 5, Zijin presented a package of items valued at over USD 18,000 to the Birim North District Assembly and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council.
The items included essential farm inputs, tricycles, motorbikes, and electrical appliances—resources expected to boost farming operations and reward outstanding farmers in the 2025 Farmers Day awards.
In a statement accompanying the donation, the company underscored the importance of agriculture to Ghana’s long-term development:
“Agriculture remains pivotal to Ghana’s growth as it feeds our nation and secures our future. We are happy to augment the government’s efforts and hope these items will motivate and encourage our local farmers.”
Regional Directorate Applauds Zijin’s Consistency
The Regional Director of Agriculture, Hajia Yusif, who received the items on behalf of the government, praised the company for its sustained commitment to farmers’ welfare.
“Over the years, Zijin has been a valued partner, and this year is no exception. We are overwhelmed by the level of support for this year’s Farmers Day. We look forward to deeper collaboration to build the capacities of farmers and the agricultural industry in the district and region,” she said.
Her remarks echoed longstanding calls for stronger partnerships between the private sector and agricultural institutions, particularly in areas where mining coexists with farming communities.
Zijin Pledges Ongoing Investment in Agriculture and Community Growth
Acting General Manager of Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, Kwesi Aglago, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring that mining communities reap direct socioeconomic benefits from its operations.
He stressed that the synergy between industry and agriculture is fundamental to sustainable development, especially in rural districts:
“Partnerships between industry and agriculture are vital for sustainable development. Zijin remains committed to supporting community development through agriculture.”
