AngloGold Ashanti, Obausi Mine, has taken a significant step towards supporting its female employees who become nursing mothers by establishing the Obuasi Mine Baby Care Centre. The centre aims to alleviate the stress and worry of female employees in finding suitable childcare, allowing mothers to focus on their work with peace of mind.
Mr. Meschack Baah, Senior Manager of Human Resources at AngloGold, announced this initiative at a symposium organized by the company to mark the 2024 International Women's Day. The event, attended by queen mothers, female assembly members, heads of departments, and various women groups, highlighted the company's commitment to supporting its female workforce.
Employees who are nursing mothers are granted one hour a day to nurse their babies upon resumption of duty, for a period up to the child's first birthday. Mr Baah emphasized that AngloGold was dedicated to creating a work environment where the dignity of employees, especially women, is respected.
“Having a baby care centre closer by affords our employees who become nursing mothers or fathers the opportunity to spend more time with their newborns while cutting down significant travel time for those who live far,” Mr. Baah stated.
Ms Adiki Ayitevie, former Vice President of Sustainability and External Relations at Newmont Goldcorp Corporation Ghana, expressed concern over the low participation of females in the mining sector. She cited statistics indicating that Ghanaian women constituted only 9% of senior employees and 10% of junior employees in mining companies in 2021.
Highlighting this year's global theme for International Women's Day, ‘Inspire Inclusion,' Ms Ayitevie emphasized the importance of increasing women's participation in society. She urged stakeholders to work towards improving the level of female representation in the mining sector.
Madam Ayitevie emphasized the need for women to have self-confidence and believe in their abilities, stating, “Women have the qualities needed to help institutions succeed; we only need to be given opportunities to harness and exhibit our talents.”
Participants at the symposium commended AngloGold Ashanti for its initiative, expressing empowerment and inspiration to be industrious and utilize their potential to the maximum. The establishment of the Baby Care Centre signifies AngloGold's commitment to creating an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace for all its employees, especially women.
