Gold Fields Ghana Limited,Damang Gold Mine has hinted that the managing trustees of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation have approved the rehabilitation of the Huni Valley Health Centre. The six-bed capacity center will be upgraded to 20 beds and will be done in 2018.
Mr. Abdel Razak Yakubu, Community Affairs and Stakeholder Relations said the health care of the host communities remains a primary concern for the company, under the Foundation’s health intervention in the communities, the Abosso clinic will be provided with a sustainable source of water.
“Contract processes are underway to construct a mechanized borehole with an electric pump and overhead tanks to supply the facility with potable water all year round” he said.
Mr Yakubu speaking at the world malaria day as they marked this year’s day with a durbar and the distribution of insecticide treated bed nets to 300 women in the Damang community.
He entreated the communities within the company’s catchment area to keep the environment clean to prevent the breading of mosquitoes which carry the malaria parasites.
The 25th day of April is earmarked every year by the World Health Organization (WHO) as World malaria day. This year’s, day was observed on the theme “Get Ready to Beat Malaria”.
Dr. Ishmael Sackey, Gold Field Manager in charge of Health Services speaking at a durbar at Damang in the Prestea Huni-Valley District in the Western Region for the host communities, explained the causes of malaria, symptoms and the need for individuals to visit the hospital regularly to check their health status.
He pointed out that pregnant women and children below age five are the most vulnerable in contracting malaria and dispel some myths associated with malaria.
He urged the recipients of the insecticide treated nets to use them properly and regularly to avoid contracting the disease.
“The company, in 2012 commissioned a clinic for the Damang community. In 2014, another clinic was constructed and donated to the Bompieso community. Numerous nurses and doctors’ accommodation units have also been provided to the host communities over the years” he said.
Mr. Francis Toku Aubynn, Assembly member for Damang electoral area was full of praise for Gold Fields. Mr. Aubynn called on the community to always avail themselves for communal activities especially those geared toward sanitation.
By: Georgina Otoo
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