In continuation of annual give-back-to-host communities day organised by the giant cement multinational company, Lafarge Africa, a member of LafargeHolcim, it has expended a total of N160 million on various development projects, spanning education, youths and farmers empowerment in 12 communities that make up its host community in Ogun State.
According to a release, Lafarge Africa gave bursary awards of N100,000 each to 204 undergraduates, agricultural fund intervention for 127 farmers, elderly care support for 128 senior citizens and start-up kits such as tricycles, motorcycles, deep freezers, sewing and grinding machines, among other tools for 119 youths across 12 communities that make up Lafarge’s host community in Ewekoro Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking shortly after the commissioning of some community projects which include modern police station at Itori, a town hall at Olujobi and a block of classrroms at Lapeleke, the Country CEO, Lafarge Africa, Michel Puchercos, explained that Lafarge Africa’s investments in community-based CSR is borne out of its sustainability strategy with four main pillars, including climate, circular economy, water and nature as well as people and communities.
Puchercos, who was represented by the Logistics Director, Bruno Hounpkati, added that “Lafarge Africa’s CSR investments are strategic and needs-based. Our commitment to the development of our local communities is unwavering because we recognise host communities as strategic partners to our business.”
In his address, the state Commissioner for Community Development, Mr Gbenga Ademosun, affirmed that Lafarge Africa has continued to reinforce its position as a socially responsible corporate citizen of the state.
He admonished the traditional rulers and the people of Ewekoro host communities to put to good use, the infrastructure and equipment received from Lafarge by developing a good maintenance culture.
The Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, said the construction of a modern police station in the headquarters of Ewekoro Local Government Area will help to meet the security needs of the host community.
The occasion was graced by eminent personalities and key stakeholders’ representatives, including the state Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the representative of the Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Chief Jide Ojuko.
Others are traditional rulers, including the Olu of Itori, Oba Akamo and the Onipapa of Papalanto, Oba Rasaki Jimoh.
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