The lives of people in West Africa are being improved by responsible mining companies operating in the region. On April 27 we reported on the great achievements of Randgold Resources. Now SEMAFO (TSX: provides an update on its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and highlights Fondation SEMAFO’s important contributions to improve the quality of life in West Africa. “In the context of SEMAFO’s humanitarian mission, we are committed to make sustainable contributions to the communities in which we operate through ethical social, health, education and environmental policies and programs,” said Benoit La Salle, SEMAFO’s President and CEO. “We have always endeavoured to be a socially responsible corporate citizen and in line with our commitment, we intend to continue our important corporate philanthropy program in 2010 by donating 2% of SEMAFO’s net income, representing approximately $1 million to support Fondation SEMAFO. We remain dedicated to making a difference in the communities in which we operate.”
During the past year, initiatives in its West African host countries included:
- Construction of five schools
- Construction of a health centre
- Establishment of two school lunch programs benefitting more than 600 children
- Donation of medical supplies, educational material, clothing, house wares, miscellaneous items (shipment of 2,600 boxes)
- Donation of agricultural equipment and irrigation systems
- Provided the village of Bossey Bangou, Niger with access to electricity
- Installation and repair of fresh water wells
- Provided financial and moral support to flood victims in Burkina Faso and Niger
- Provided support and guidance in the establishment of shea butter soap manufacturing project.
“We are very fortunate to have such a partner,” said Chantal Guerin, Fondation SEMAFO‘s General Director. “SEMAFO continues to play an integral role in our ongoing efforts to effect positive change in West Africa. I am proud to note that in 2010 as part of our commitment to sustainable development, we are working in close co-operation with government and community groups to initiate a sesame produce and processing project in Burkina Faso, a paprika produce project in Niger and a fish or fonio program in Guinea.”
Fondation SEMAFO‘s 2010 objectives include:
- Construction of schools
- Donation of educational material
- Construction of latrines for schools
- Continue school lunch program
- Ongoing shipment and distribution of donated items
- Assist the population to establish self-sufficient revenue-generating development initiatives.
Fondation SEMAFO is a registered Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) charitable organization established in 2008. Fondation SEMAFO‘s funding is provided by corporate and individual donations and through partnerships with various organizations. The foundation’s independent Board of Directors reviews and determines participation based on the potential for viable sustainable development and prospective social and environmental benefits. Fondation SEMAFO is committed to work in concert with the people, communities and governments in accordance with economic, social and cultural guidelines respective to each individual country.