Social Development and Gender Superintendent at AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Obuasi Mine, Mavis Nana Yaa Kyei, has underscored the importance of collaboration in curbing gender-based violence in schools, homes, churches and workplace.
She made this call at a symposium organised by AGA Obuasi Mine as part of the company’s 16 days of sensitization on gender-based violence for employees and residents within the Obuasi catchment area.
Sensitisation on gender-based violence is commemorated every year to raise awareness on its negative effects on persons who go through such experiences. According to the United Nations in 2022, about one in four Ghanaian women have suffered physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner.
Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) against women and young girls has been allowed to escalate to epidemic proportions. Today, one in three women worldwide experience gender-based violence, suffering the stigma while offenders commit these acts with impunity
Delivering a speech during the symposium at Obuasi, Ms. Kyei indicated that AngloGold Ashanti remains steadfast in its commitment to combat gender-based violence within the company and the communities in which the mine operates. However, it cannot do it all alone but requires collaborative effort from each member of the society.
“We understand that this issue cannot be tackled in isolation; it requires collaboration and collective action. Together, we can build a society where women feel safe, heard, and valued – both within our organization and in the communities we serve.
Today, we are gathered to discuss and address an issue of utmost importance – gender-based violence, which is under the theme “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women.” Your presence here gives me great hope and encouragement that, after today, we can come together as a united force committed to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all,” she said.
Zero-tolerance policy
Ms. Kyei mentioned that AGA Obuasi Mine has put in several measures and policies which are being implemented to prevent any form of gender-based violence.
“Within the Obuasi Mine, we have implemented robust policies and procedures to prevent harassment and violence in the workplace. Our zero-tolerance policy against any form of gender-based violence ensures that all employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities and encourages them to report any instances of misconduct through our established confidential reporting mechanisms, without fear of being victimized.
With our ongoing zero tolerance awareness campaigns, induction sessions, and colorful visual aids that are placed at vantage areas of the Mine, AngloGold Ashanti strives to maintain a workplace in which everyone feels safe, is treated fairly, and with dignity and I respect,” she highlighted.
Ms. Kyei further encouraged boys and men to use their masculinity towards the greater good of creating a safe and equitable environment for all.
