President Akufo-Addo has directed that $5 million out of the total $6 million to be paid by Maxam Ghana Limited to the government be donated to the Appiatse Support Fund.
The government, following recommendation by the committee tasked to probe the Appiatse explosion had slapped US$6 million fined on Maxam.
In a statement dated 10th February 2022, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor said he has directed the Mineral Commission to ensure that the President’s directive is carried out.
“Accordingly, I have directed the Minerals Commission to ensure that the said Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) is paid to Appiatse Support Fund, in accordance with the agreed terms of payment,” the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources disclosed.
Background
The Company embroiled in the Appiatse explosion Maxam has been fined US$6 million by government following recommendation by the committee tasked to probe the explosion.
However, Maxam in statement said its “indeed saddened by the incident and we express our heartfelt sympathy to Ghana, particularly, members of the Appiatse community for the loss of lives, property and livelihoods.”
Maxam further noted that though they have not committed any of the breaches stated in the Committee’s report it will pay the fine of US$6 million from the government.
“Based on a different interpretation of the applicable regulations, we believe that Maxam has not committed any of those breaches, however, to ensure the continuity of the business, to be able to supply our customers, to protect the employment of our workers and sub-contractors, Maxam has decided to pay the fine and will comply with the measures of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
“Given our commitment to Ghana and its welfare, Maxam has agreed to the payment of additional Five Million United States Dollars or its cedi equivalent,” the Company added.
Maxam will ensure it is in full compliance with the new regulatory measures announced by the Ministry and will continue to conduct its operations in accordance with the laws of Ghana and international best practices.
