Nananom, members of the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, and Newmont employees at the commissioning of the Kenyase Military Forward Operating Base
Newmont has handed over two newly constructed and furnished military Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Sankore and Kenyase in the Ahafo Region.
The bases, funded by Newmont at a cost of GH¢10.7 million, were built to improve emergency response times and combat rising security challenges in the region, which was previously part of the erstwhile Brong Ahafo Region.
Until now, the security services and residents relied on military support from Sunyani in the neighbouring Bono Region, which often increased the response time during crises.
The new bases are strategically located to allow for quicker deployments, ensuring better protection for communities and businesses within the region.
The project involved collaboration between Newmont, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, and other stakeholders.
Beyond improving security, the construction of the bases created jobs for over 200 local residents, many of whom were hired through local contractors.
This effort provided temporary employment and strengthened local businesses, making the project a blend of economic and social impact.
Speaking at a ceremony to hand over the bases to the State, General Manager of Newmont’s Ahafo South Mine, Alex Kofi Annin stated: ‘The absence of established military forward operating bases in the Ahafo Region has long posed a challenge, necessitating reliance on the military contingent stationed in Sunyani in the Bono Region.
This reliance has often resulted in delayed response times, hindering the effective functioning of our security services during emergencies and crises.
By funding the construction of these bases in Kenyase and Sankore, Newmont has committed to ensuring safer communities.”
For Newmont, the project reflects its commitment to improving lives and contributing to the development of the areas where it operates.