Gbankor Bricks and Tiles (GBT) has funded a solar-powered borehole. It will improve water access for the people of Paali. This is in the Nadowli-Kaeo district of the Upper West Region. The project addresses an acute water shortage in the area. It is part of the company's community reinvestment strategy.
The borehole project was financed using money from brick sales. GBT channels a portion of each sale into local development initiatives. Naa Jamaa Matarah II, Divisional Chief of the Kaleo Traditional Council, established the factory a decade ago. He said, “Every single brick that we produce, five pesewas, if we sell one brick, we put five pesewas aside to try and do something back to the community.” This ensures business growth directly benefits the local population. The project was also praised for its swift completion. It was finished within one month of identifying the water challenges.
This initiative fits into a larger trend of corporate social responsibility in Ghana. Many businesses are now linking profits to community upliftment. GBT's model of reinvesting profits into local infrastructure shows a commitment to sustainable development. This contrasts with traditional business models. The factory also plays a role in job creation. It currently employs 18 young people. These employees receive monthly wages of GHS 1,500. They also get year-end bonuses.
Naa Matarah II highlighted the importance of this project. He noted the factory gained significant traction after Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Bagbin awarded GBT a contract. This contract was for 400,000 bricks for Sombo Senior High School. This deal helped expand the business and create more jobs. GBT's work also promotes eco-friendly building materials. They use sustainable clay bricks as an alternative to cement.
Naa Matarah II envisions a future with widespread use of local, sustainable materials. He believes this can reduce rural-urban migration. It can also curb illegal mining by creating jobs in rural areas. The factory's bricks offer natural thermal comfort. They do not need regular painting. This makes them a cost-effective choice for construction. The company already has a portfolio of community projects. These include a library and an ICT centre with 18 computers.