Electrochem is Focus on Poverty Reduction in Songhor Communities-CEO
Electrochem Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of the McDan Group, has reaffirmed its commitment to poverty alleviation, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability in the Songhor communities.
Speaking at a community outgrower scheme and land allocation ceremony on August 26th, 2024, Abdul Razak Adam, the Chief Executive Officer of Electrochem, emphasized that these three objectives are at the core of the company’s operations.
“Our intent is to alleviate poverty in this society while empowering women and promoting environmental sustainability. These aren’t just corporate social responsibilities; they are the foundation of why we exist,” said Mr. Adam.
The company’s initiatives include providing interest-free loans to support women in the community. The loan program, which began with a GHS 1 million allocation, has now expanded to GHS 10 million. Additionally, 80% of the company’s salt miners are women, reinforcing its commitment to gender inclusion.
Electrochem has also made strides in environmental restoration, particularly in reviving the Songhor Lagoon, which had deteriorated over the years. “If you compare the current state of the lagoon to three years ago, the transformation is clear. The lagoon is now thriving,” Mr. Adam noted.
The company’s community engagement extends to the construction of community salt pans, free of charge, across 10 communities. Over 70 pans are being built, with several already in operation. To ensure sustainability, brine is provided for free, but only to those who comply with environmentally friendly practices.
Recognizing the limitations of the community pan system, Electrochem has introduced an outgrower scheme to allow individual businessmen to manage their own salt production. This scheme is designed to support those who have mined salt traditionally, ensuring that no one is left out of business due to Electrochem’s operations.
In a significant development, Mr. Kwaku Amprofi, CEO of McDan Group, announced that Electrochem Ghana will be listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, potentially as early as this year. “We’re going on the stock market soon. Our aim is to make Electrochem a company that belongs not only to its current shareholders but to the public, fostering greater inclusivity and community participation,” he said.
Mr. Amprofi emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, adding that Electrochem’s sustainable and environmentally friendly operations have positioned it as a leader in the salt industry. The public listing is expected to attract significant interest, allowing more Ghanaians to participate in the company’s growth while reinforcing its commitment to the local economy and community empowerment.
With its focus on sustainable development and community inclusion, Electrochem Ghana is set to become a success story not only for the company but for all Ghanaians and Africans.
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Source: Felix Nyaaba // ExpressNewsGhana.com