NEWMONT-EARTHWATCH COLLEGIATE DINNER

White-necked rock fowl

Newmont Gold Ghana limited (NGGL) has since 2007 collaborated with Earthwatch in conserving the White-necked rock fowl (Picathartes gymnocephalus) in the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana, near the company’s Ahafo mines where some of this unique species are located . Newmont therefore held a collegiate dinner to celebrate progress made, provide an opportunity for interaction between fellows who have participated in the project since its inception and/or are undertaking similar initiatives within Ghana and also to provide the media with some insights in to the efforts being made at conserving the bird species.

The species is classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN international criteria for threatened species. It is endemic to the Upper Guinean forest block of West Africa but is under significant threat from rapid fragmentation and clearance of rainforest throughout its range. Forest conversion, collecting of birds for export, and human disturbance at nest sites have been cited as the main causes of the species endangered status.

The climax of the dinner was the launching of a documentary produced by the research team for the media and public – copies of which can be accessed on request. The media was encouraged to publish more of nature related articles which are hoped to promote conservation and enhance the potential to improve tourism in Ghana.

A Rocha Ghana was represented by Prosper Kwame Antwi Boasiako and Peter Teinor.