The Company, through the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has also contributed US$433,891 to support government's effort to reduce the spread of the deadly virus and also assisted the most vulnerable in society.

Mr Alfred Baku, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Head of West Africa Region, said this in a press statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency.

"This contribution represents our timely response to the call by the Government of Ghana to support in the fight against COVID-19, which has been spreading since Ghana reported its first case on 12 March, 2020", he said.

Mr Baku explained that, "As a Company, which prioritise the health and safety of its employees, we have a duty to support the needy and the vulnerable in our society in these challenging times. We believe our contribution will go a long way to flattening the curve and help us return to normal lives soon".

In addition, he said, approximately, US$400,000 has been used to purchase hand-held thermometers, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, goggles, face masks, protective gowns and other COVID-19 protective equipment for their employees and host communities.

Prior to Ghana recording its first case, Mr Baku said the Mines instituted strict measures to screen employees, community members, contractors and visitors on their sites, adding that, "these measures are still being enforced".

According to the EVP, the company had also sponsored radio programmes to educate and sensitise their host communities about the COVID-19 pandemic.

He further said Goldfields Ghana Limited was working closely with local and national health authorities to keep the Mines operating areas safe and strengthen its COVID-19 protocols.

"The dynamic and evolving nature of the virus requires its employees and community members to be alert and observe basic personal hygiene at all times", he stated.

Mr Baku commended the firm's employees for their vigilance, courage and dedication to work during this critical period and urged them to stay calm and practice social distancing.

"This unprecedented pandemic, though tough and potentially life-threatening, it will soon come to an end if we individually and collectively play our part", he stressed.