Real impact, Real people: How CSI changed Ruth Buame’s narrative

Newmont and Injaro Revamp APSC for Local Economy

Newmont partnered with Injaro Investment Advisors Limited to revamp APSC. This collaboration aimed to improve the local economy.

Challenges Faced by APSC

APSC started as a partnership between Newmont Ghana and GIZ. Despite good intentions, it faced serious challenges. Limited access to raw materials and expertise halted operations in 2018.

To fulfill its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) commitments, Newmont sought Injaro’s help. Injaro is known for building African businesses. Their mission was clear: revive APSC, ensure sustainability, and create opportunities for locals.

Injaro's Comprehensive Approach

With funding from Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, Injaro led the factory's overhaul. They developed a strategy to upgrade machinery and office spaces. The firm oversaw technical audits and installed modern processing lines for ginger and chili pepper.

Injaro collaborated with service providers, contractors, and local stakeholders. They engaged the community, established an out-grower scheme, and recruited local talent.

Recognizing people’s importance for sustainability, they created a strong HR system. Partners conducted assessments and designed equipment layouts tailored to APSC’s needs.

Local contractors renovated factory buildings and built a wastewater recycling system. This coordinated approach upgraded both infrastructure and operations effectively.

Creating Jobs and Opportunities

Thanks to Newmont’s initiative and Injaro’s efforts, APSC is now thriving. It provides stable jobs that offer financial security to community members like Ruth Buame.

By aligning private capital with local development needs, they show how extractive sectors can foster sustainable economies. This model impacts:

- Local Economic Development policies in mining regions.
- Public-private partnerships balancing profit with community benefits.
- Youth employment strategies offering structured pathways.

APSC serves as a proof of concept for inclusive growth in various sectors.

Ruth's Transformative Journey

In Subriso near Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region, 24-year-old Ruth Buame is changing her life story. Growing up in a farming family with limited resources posed many challenges.

Before joining APSC, Ruth helped her parents on their farm but struggled financially. Basic necessities were often out of reach until she became a factory hand at APSC.

This opportunity transformed her life significantly. With her steady income, she can meet personal needs and support her parents financially.

“Now I no longer worry about little things,” she shares happily.

Building Confidence Through Work

APSC has given Ruth more than just financial independence; it has boosted her confidence too. She learned essential skills like communication and teamwork while working there.

Ruth dreams of becoming a nurse one day. With plans to save over five years for education costs, she aims to start her own business too.

“APSC didn’t just give me a job; it gave me hope,” she says warmly. “I’ll always remember this as the place where it all began.”

Ruth's journey exemplifies how thoughtful corporate social investment can transform lives through opportunities at APSC.

Conclusion: Sustainable Foundations for Futures

Under Newmont’s guidance, Injaro turned a defunct facility into a hub of hope. Their strategy shows that extractive companies can build sustainable futures beyond infrastructure alone.

About the Author

Ilsemarie Gezzelley is an Investment Analyst at Injaro Investment Advisors Limited. She focuses on building sustainable African enterprises that generate financial returns alongside social impact through investment evaluations and market research.

For more information:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.injaroinvestmentadvisors.com