At Hummingbird Resources, our commitment to sustainable and responsible mining extends beyond operational excellence. We strive to create lasting positive impacts on the communities surrounding our sites by focusing on essential areas such as water provision, education, healthcare support, community livelihoods, and training initiatives.
Hummingbird is committed to providing sustainable community projects and livelihood programmes in the regions we operate in outside of the opportunities of employment at the mine sites at each operation. We look to support leaders and representatives from all stakeholders on an on-going basis, from holding regular meetings to address grievances, to carrying-out community projects and livelihood programmes.
Our approach is rooted in collaboration with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that our projects are aligned with their needs and centre on positive planning for the future around the below key areas:
Key community development achievements
Access to clean and reliable water sources is a fundamental need, and in FY-2023, Hummingbird Resources made significant strides in enhancing water infrastructure in the regions where we operate.
- Yanfolila: We installed four Human-Powered Hydraulic Pumps in strategic locations, including Digneba, Guelenikoro School, Bangassi, and Badani. Additionally, we constructed 30 wells within agricultural areas to support local gardening projects, directly benefiting the communities by improving access to clean water and supporting agricultural productivity.
- Kouroussa: We focused on building sustainable water infrastructure by constructing six boreholes in impacted communities. We also provided training to local management committees, ensuring that these water sources are maintained and managed effectively for long-term use.
Education is key to community development, and we are dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for children in the regions we serve.
- Yanfolila: Our efforts included the continued sponsorship of teachers across 10 villages, with 12 teachers supported since the program’s inception in 2016. We also constructed three new classrooms with attached toilets in Tientogo, rehabilitated Komissana School, and improved teacher housing in Guelenikoro. These initiatives are designed to create a better learning environment and increase access to quality education.
- Kouroussa: We provided 500 school kits and supplies to students, contributing to improved learning outcomes. Additionally, our investment in educational infrastructure included the construction and equipping of a youth centre and the renovation of public buildings, further supporting the region’s educational needs.
Improving access to healthcare services is a priority for Hummingbird Resources, as we recognise the vital role that health plays in community well-being working closely with Critical Care International (“CCI”), a leading provider of healthcare solutions in remote areas (critcareint.com). Improving access to healthcare services is a priority for Hummingbird, as we recognise the vital role that health plays in community well-being.
- Yanfolila: We constructed a maternity ward, significantly enhancing care for pregnant women and children in the area. Additionally, we supported community health campaigns, focusing on malaria prevention, to ensure that essential healthcare services are available to those in need.
- Kouroussa: Our healthcare initiatives included the construction of boreholes to provide clean drinking water, which is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases. These efforts are part of our broader strategy to improve the overall health and well-being of the communities around our operations.
Supporting and restoring livelihoods in our host communities is essential for sustainable development.
- Yanfolila: We established a one-hectare community gardening area in Badougou, benefiting 50 women and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, we supported the development of poultry farms, providing alternative income sources for local residents.
- Kouroussa: We implemented a market gardening project in Bananko village, empowering women with sustainable livelihood options. We also supported beekeeping projects, offering additional avenues for income generation and community empowerment.
Training and development are key components of our commitment to fostering local talent and ensuring long-term sustainability in the communities we serve.
- Yanfolila: Our focus on local employment included updating nationalisation plans and developing succession plans for roles currently held by international employees. As of 2023, 94% of our site employees are Malian nationals, with 24% coming from local communities. This ensures that our operations not only contribute to the local economy but also empower local talent.
- Kouroussa: Similarly, we updated nationalisation plans and implemented succession planning for key roles. In 2023, 96% of our site employees, including subcontractors, were Guinean nationals, with 81% originating from local communities. This reflects our commitment to local empowerment and sustainable development within Guinea’s mining sector.
Hummingbird Resources remains dedicated to responsible mining practices that go beyond profit generation. Our initiatives in water provision, education, healthcare, community livelihood, and training are central to our mission of leaving a positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve. We continue to work closely with local stakeholders to ensure that our efforts align with their needs and contribute to their long-term prosperity.
