ANIKOKO RESETTLEMENT PROJECT

Brief Project Information

Anikoko community is a group of 15 hamlets with approximately 165 inhabitants, which is situated close to the recent extension of the Golden Star (Bogoso/Prestea) Limited (GSBPL) tailings disposal facility.

The inhabitants are mainly farmers who rely on nearby communities for their other needs and socioeconomic activities.

During an environment audit performed in 2007, the EPA identified a concern that the community may be affected by its proximity of the tailings operations. We were directed to prepare a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) to better assess the potential effects on the community. We completed the requested RAP in 2008; subsequently the EPA instructed the company to resettle the community by completing and implementing the prepared RAP.

Initial Consultation with Anikoko and Stakeholders

We held our initial consultations with the Anikoko community to develop the draft RAP. Meetings were organized with focus groups and individuals in the community for discussions and comments and concerns incorporated into the document.

We consulted our external stakeholder (e.g. EPA, Mines Department, Traditional Authorities, District Assembly) for their views, concerns and suggestions regarding the RAP.

Throughout the project period, all stakeholders and community members will be updated on progress and given the opportunity to provide their input in planning and to actively participate in the implementation.

RAP Preparation and Implementation

We are committed to proceed with the activities required to complete the RAP and reach a final negotiated resettlement agreement that is acceptable to all parties. We will implement the agreement according to the Ghanaian laws and international best practices. 
We have been working with the Anikoko community, and jointly prepared and agreed upon an implementation schedule of activities to complete the resettlement of the community.
Continuing the RAP implementation process, we worked with the Anikoko representatives to form the Anikoko Resettlement Negotiations Committee. The roles of the Committee are as follows:

1. Discuss issues related to resettlement,
2. Assess and schedule the required activities to complete the RAP
3. Assist the community and the company in reaching a general agreement on resettlement
4. Establish a mechanism to implement and monitor the resettlement process

The community and the company, in consultation with the local District Assembly of the Prestea-Huni Valley and the EPA agreed on a list of members for the proposed committee, which includes representatives of the community, the company and the relevant regulatory agencies.
Invitations were sent to all proposed participants and the Committee is expected to meet for the first time before the end of February 2009.