The issue of illegal mining, often referred to as “galamsey” in Ghana, has raised concerns among various stakeholders, including Chinese investors operating within the country. A group of Chinese investors has publicly condemned the illicit activities of some of their compatriots engaged in galamsey, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the Ghanaian government and the Chinese Embassy in combating this environmental and social menace. This pledge was made during a field trip organized by the African-China Centre for Policy and Advisory (ACCPA) for a select group of media practitioners undergoing a 12-week training course. The visit was aimed at providing a platform for open dialogue and exchange of perspectives regarding the role and impact of Chinese investments in Ghana.
The visit centered around the China State Hualong Construction Company Limited (Ghana), a prominent Chinese company with a long-standing presence in the country. Mr. Zhang Xiang, the General Manager of the company, unequivocally denounced illegal mining, attributing the practice to a small number of “bad nuts” within the Chinese community. He stressed the importance of fostering peaceful coexistence between Ghanaians and law-abiding Chinese residents, highlighting that the vast majority of Chinese individuals in Ghana are not involved in illicit activities and contribute positively to the nation’s development. Mr. Zhang underscored his company’s commitment to operating within the bounds of Ghanaian law, citing their 40-year track record of successfully executing major projects across the country.
Mr. Zhang further elaborated on the company’s diverse portfolio of projects, showcasing their contributions to Ghana’s infrastructure and economic development. As one of the top 250 international contractors, China State Hualong Construction Company Limited (Ghana) has been instrumental in constructing numerous landmark buildings, including the Bank of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Independence Square, Peduase Lodge, the Golden Tulip Hotel in Kumasi, the Chamber of Parliament, the Court Complex, the Maritime Hospital, Ghana Free Zones facilities, residential apartments for the Tema Development Corporation (TDC), affordable housing projects, and the conversion of the State House into the Parliament House. The company’s projects extend beyond government buildings to encompass religious institutions like the Wesley Methodist Church Tower and the Church of Pentecost Headquarters, educational facilities such as the AMA Public School, healthcare infrastructure like the hospital in Dormaa as part of the Agenda 111 Project, and transportation infrastructure like the La Beach Road. They have also provided mechanical equipment to other construction companies operating in Ghana.
Beyond its core construction activities, the company actively engages in corporate social responsibility initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to community development and social welfare. Their philanthropic endeavors, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflect their dedication to fostering positive relations between Ghana and China. Mr. Zhang reiterated the company’s adherence to Ghana’s environmental regulations, reemphasizing their staunch opposition to illegal mining. The company also invests in capacity building for its Ghanaian workforce, sponsoring further education opportunities abroad to enhance their skills and contribute more effectively to national development. Furthermore, China State Hualong Construction Company Limited (Ghana) diligently fulfills its statutory obligations by paying Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) contributions for its employees and adhering to all tax regulations. Mr. Zhang affirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining its credibility and ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership with Ghana.
The ACCPA plays a crucial role in fostering understanding and informed dialogue on China-Africa relations. Mr. Paul Frimpong, Executive Director of ACCPA, explained the organization’s mission to bring together African researchers specializing in China-Africa relations and produce knowledge that contributes to shaping policies. The Centre also facilitates access to first-hand information on Chinese activities, key contributors, and challenges within the context of Africa. The field trip organized for the media practitioners provided valuable insights into the operations and contributions of a prominent Chinese company in Ghana, enriching their understanding of the complexities and nuances of China-Africa relations. The participants were accompanied by Madam Sylvia Sinkari, Dr. Isaac Ankrah, and Miss Mercy Tedeku, who served as resource persons during the visit.
In summary, the visit to China State Hualong Construction Company Limited (Ghana) served as a valuable platform for Chinese investors to publicly condemn illegal mining activities and affirm their commitment to supporting the Ghanaian government in combating this pressing issue. The company’s extensive track record of contributing to Ghana’s infrastructure development and its commitment to corporate social responsibility demonstrate the potential for positive and mutually beneficial partnerships between Chinese investors and African nations. The ACCPA’s role in facilitating knowledge exchange and informed dialogue is crucial for navigating the complexities of China-Africa relations and promoting sustainable development. The media practitioners’ participation in this field trip equipped them with valuable insights to enhance their reporting on this important topic. Mr. Zhang’s strong condemnation of illegal mining and his company’s commitment to sustainable business practices provides a counter-narrative to the often-negative perceptions surrounding Chinese investment in Africa. By highlighting the positive contributions of responsible Chinese businesses, the visit underscored the importance of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation for the benefit of both Ghana and China.
