Okyeman signs agreement with Ghana Rubber Estates Ltd

Gabriel Ahiabor Aug - 20 - 2014 , 10:57

The Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL), a public-private initiative and leader in rubber production in Ghana, is set to expand its operations to the Eastern Region. The company employs over 4,000 people and exports nearly 100 per cent of its natural rubber produce.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to give effect to the process was signed between the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council (AATC) and the GREL at separate ceremonies in Kyebi and Accra. Under the arrangement, GREL will have access to AATC lands for the cultivation of both rubber and oil palm.

The Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, signed on behalf of Okyeman while Mr Lionel Barre, Managing Director of GREL initialled for the company.

Speaking at the event, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin urged divisional chiefs in the traditional area to co-operate with the officials of GREL to ensure the success of the project.

He said the investment which was on a long-term basis was aimed at providing employment opportunities for the people in the area.

“They are here to help the communities and create employment for your children. Do not foment trouble for them,’’ he urged the chiefs.

Mr Lionel Barre said the company had as its objective to acquire 10,000 hectares of land from the traditional council within a period of two years for a rubber plantation.

He said the first phase of 1,850 hectares of the plantation would take off in four communities under the Asamankese paramount stool.

The communities are Asikasu, Mempon, Fanturumah and Okurase.

According to him, GREL had created 9,000 jobs for outgrowers in the Western Region who plant rubber for the company.

Mr Barre expressed the company’s commitment to developing and creating employment opportunities in the Akyem Abuakwa traditional area in particular and the Eastern Region as a whole. He expressed his appreciation to the chiefs for their assistance.