Farmers of Ahafo in the Brong Ahafo Region are demanding fresh negotiations with Newmont Gold Ghana Limited concerning the 2009/2010 Crop Rate Review(CRR) .In a communiqué released by the leader of the youth associations of the affected communities Robert Buabeng and signed by youth associations chairmen and secretaries of Ntotroso, Kenyasi no.i and ii , Wamahinso, Yamfo , Gyedu ,Afrisipa , Susuanso and Techire and copied to the Ministry of Lands and Forestry, Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Members of Parliament ,DCE’S of the affected communities ,chiefs and opinion leaders asked Newmont Gold Ghana Limited to halt the activities of the current the Crop Rate Review Committee until the proper thing is done to benefit the purpose for which it was formed.

According to the aggrieved youth associations, they are dismayed by the conduct of the representatives of the committee members who they say have failed to serve the interest of the affected farmers .

Concerns raised in the communiqué accused Newmont Gold Ghana Limited of unfair treatment as compared to what is pertaining in Akyem. Among the concerns raised are the big disparities in compensation payments being offered to farmers in Akyem as compared to Ahafo . While Newmont Gold Ghana Limited is said to be offering GH ¢ 11,355.75 for an acre of matured teak trees(i.e 2008/2009 rates) , farmers at Ahafo were given GH¢5,443.73 according to the farmers research.

Currently NGGL intends to offer farmers at Ahafo for this year GH 6,804.66 for matured teak trees which is almost half the amount NGGL offered Akyem affected people.The Youth Associations are demanding each community must be represented by at least eight people on the committee responsible for negotiating compensation .Thirdly , they are demanding Newmont Gold Ghana Limited must allow the affected communities to employ the services of a professional valuers or negotiators as it was done in Akyem assist the affected in the negotiation committee.

Last but not the least , the farmers have asked for the change of the name Crop Rate Review Committee CRRC to Crop Negotiation Committee (CNC ).

The communiqué warned NGGL to address the concerns raised as soon as possible to avoid clashes with the youth.

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CUBAGEE URIEL(cubageeuu@yahoo.com)