Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited has pushed back strongly against accusations that it sidelines Talensi indigenes in its recruitment, revealing that over half of its Upper East workforce is drawn from the Talensi District itself.
Responding to allegations by a pressure group, Talensi Mining Communities Initiative (TAMCI), the company’s Community and Social Responsibility Manager, Emmanuel Kofi Adusei, disclosed that Cardinal employs 2,135 workers, of which 94 percent are Ghanaians and only 6 percent are expatriates—mainly due to the ongoing commissioning of the gold project.
“Out of the 94 percent Ghanaian workforce, 50 percent are from the Upper East Region, and 56 percent of that figure are Talensi indigenes,” Adusei told journalists. “This shows our deliberate commitment to ensure that people from the project area are not left out.”
He explained that the company had set up Community Employment Committees across its seven immediate host communities, including chiefs, Tindaamas, assembly members, women’s representatives, and youth leaders, to guarantee fairness and transparency in job recruitment.
“When there are vacancies, especially for semi-skilled and unskilled jobs, these committees are the first point of reference. For highly skilled positions, we advertise nationally, but preference is always given to qualified locals,” Mr. Adusei noted.
Responding to TAMCI’s concerns, including alleged lack of engagement, social responsibility agreements, and environmental issues, Mr. Adusei emphasized that Cardinal has “open and transparent mechanisms of engagement with all stakeholders.” He pointed to resettlement projects, livelihood restoration programmes, and infrastructure support in education, health, water, and sanitation as evidence of the company’s commitment to community development.
“Cardinal Namdini cannot employ everybody, but through structured agreements like the upcoming Social Responsibility Agreement and the establishment of a Development Foundation, more people across Talensi will benefit through scholarships, infrastructure, and social investments,” he said.
Mr. Adusei entreated the group and the public, stressing that unity and constructive dialogue with traditional and district authorities remain the best way forward.
“We are here for business, but equally here to support the development of Talensi and the Upper East Region. If our people understand the project better, they will realize that it is designed to bring shared benefits,” he added.
A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|
