The Underground Mining Alliance (UMA), a company linked to Newmont Ahafo Mines, has provided a GHS 2,000 financial donation to St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital. This hospital serves as a key medical facility for the Ahafo Region and four other nearby regions. This contribution aims to help the hospital upgrade its outdated medical equipment and expand its emergency ward. The ward will grow from its current 7 beds to 30 beds. This project is part of UMA's corporate social responsibility efforts.
UMA also marked World Menstrual Hygiene Day with a campaign in Kenyasi. They delivered health education and free sanitary products to basic schoolgirls in the Asutifi North District. This initiative is critical for addressing "period poverty," a lack of access to menstrual products and facilities. This issue affects millions of women and girls globally. In Ghana, it is estimated that many schoolgirls miss up to three days of school each month due to the lack of sanitary products. This leads to significant educational gaps.
Bertha Yeboah, UMA's Human Resource Supervisor and CSR team lead, stated that the company prioritizes the health and well-being of people in its operational areas. She stressed that good health is crucial for development. UMA believes in breaking the stigma around menstruation. Yeboah encouraged boys and men to support their female peers. This support helps create an inclusive environment. The initiative aligns with global efforts to improve health and education.
The hospital donation comes at a vital time for St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital. Sister Georgina Lawrencia Quayson, the hospital's Manager, expressed gratitude. She highlighted that the funds will ensure essential upgrades. These upgrades will improve patient care significantly. The expansion of the emergency ward is a major priority. It will allow the hospital to serve more patients effectively. This support is vital for a facility that has served the region for 70 years.
UMA's focus on menstrual health supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These include Goal 3 for Good Health and Well-Being and Goal 4 for Quality Education. By reducing school absenteeism among girls, UMA contributes to their overall education. It also promotes gender equality, aligning with Goal 5. These efforts are particularly important in rural areas where access to proper healthcare and sanitation can be limited. The UMA initiative demonstrates how extractive industries can positively impact local communities by investing in human rights and dignity.