GAC Launches the 2024 Public Consultations Across 31 Villages within its Mining Concession to Strengthen Community Engagement

Kamsar, Thursday, August 29, 2024 – Guinea Alumina Corporation (GAC) has launched its 2024 public consultations, which have been underway since July 7 across 31 villages within its mining concession. This initiative aims to promote open and constructive engagement with local communities, thereby reaffirming GAC’s commitment to transparency and the well-being of the neighbouring communities.

By integrating community feedback into its decision-making processes, GAC aims to strengthen mutual trust and cultivate stronger relationships with its key stakeholders, enhancing its position as a responsible and transparent organisation. In 2024, GAC aims to engage 2,500 participants from 31 villages, ensuring equitable representation across various social strata, including vulnerable groups. The insights gathered will be used to revise the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and the communication strategy, aligning them more closely with the community’s expectations.

“These consultations reinforce our commitment to transparency and social responsibility while further strengthening our integration within the communities. They facilitate the establishment of a trusted dialogue rooted in active listening, which enables us to more effectively address the needs articulated by our stakeholders. At GAC, we are steadfast in our belief that transparency and collaboration are fundamental to achieving mutual success” said Alhassane SAKHO, Community Relations Manager.

The public consultations conducted in 2023 proved to be highly significant, engaging over 1,104 participants, including 292 women. These consultations brought to light concerns regarding youth employment and environmental issues such as noise and pollution.

Looking ahead to 2024, GAC intends to broaden the scope of its consultations through a series of community forums that will include eight districts, three rural communes, and the Boké prefecture. These forums will not only continue to address traditional topics such as employment and environmental impacts but will also introduce new discussions centered on health, safety, and sustainable development.