Damang Mine marks World Water Day with call for Gender-Inclusive Water Governance

Gold Fields Limited Damang Mine has marked this year’s World Water Day with a strong call for inclusive water governance, highlighting the critical role of women in water management and sustainability.

The event, held under the theme “Water and Gender,” brought together university students, senior high school students, and members of the Damang Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) committees to engage on responsible water use and community participation.

Speaking at the occasion, the Operations Manager of Damang Mine, Sampson Arthur, described the observance as more than a symbolic event, stressing that it represents a shared responsibility across communities and industries.

“Water is life. It drives industries, shapes ecosystems and ultimately defines our resilience. Without it, there are no growth story, no sustainability narrative and no future to negotiate,” he said.

Mr. Arthur emphasised that the 2026 theme challenges stakeholders to move beyond infrastructure and compliance and focus on people, particularly women and girls, who play central roles in water access and management.

“In matters of water, women are not merely participants. They are decision-makers and custodians, often forming the backbone of water provision at household and community levels,” he noted.

He indicated that Damang Mine was shifting from awareness to action by promoting inclusion, transparency, and measurable impact in its water governance approach. According to him, involving women in water management is not only socially responsible, but also a strategic business decision that strengthens accountability and sustainability.

“When women are actively involved, systems become more accountable, communities more resilient and solutions more practical,” he added.

Mr. Arthur also encouraged students from University of Mines and Technology and Queen of Peace Senior High School to take an active interest in water management, noting that the future of the sector depends on the next generation of leaders.

Also addressing participants, Dr. Desmond Asare, Unit manager for Environment underscored the need for equitable access to water and responsible usage, describing water as a scarce, but essential resource.

He explained that mining operations rely heavily on water, particularly in mineral processing, and assured participants that Damang Mine continues to prioritise water conservation and responsible usage.

“It is a key reporting indicator for us. We monitor our water consumption and usage every month because we recognise that water is scarce globally,” he stated.

Dr. Asare said the programme was also designed to educate students and community members on mining processes and how the company is working to conserve water resources.

On her part, the Unit Manager for Occupational Health and Safety at Damang Mine, Irene Aboagye-Akari, highlighted the intersection between water management, safety and inclusion.

“Water is life but it is also risky, needs responsibility and discipline. Safe water management is about protecting people, ecosystems and ensuring that today’s systems do not become tomorrow’s hazards,” she said.

She stressed the importance of mentorship and capacity building, noting that sustainable systems depend on the people who manage them. “This engagement is not just an event; it is a pipeline—a deliberate investment in awareness, capacity, and leadership,” she added.

Mrs. Aboagye-Akari further commended members of the WATSAN committees for their frontline role in translating water policies into everyday practices within communities.

The event reinforced Damang Mine’s commitment to sustainable water management, community engagement, and creating opportunities for women and girls to actively participate in water governance.

Participants were urged to adopt responsible water practices and contribute to safeguarding water resources for present and future generations.

 

 

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