Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. (RGM) continues to support community development in Nieuw Koffiekamp through two initiatives focused on education and the well being of elderly residents: the School Supplies Project and the Food Basket Project.
Together, the initiatives represent an investment of nearly USD 45,000 and support both young and elderly members of Nieuw Koffiekamp, one of RGM’s eight Communities of Interest and the community closest to its operations.
The initiatives were also introduced in response to challenges the community is experiencing related to Small Scale Mining (SSM), which remains an important source of income for many families. Limited availability of accessible mining areas has placed increasing economic pressure on households, affecting their ability to meet everyday needs.
Supporting pupils for the new school year
The School Supplies Project was introduced in Nieuw Koffiekamp in 2026 to help ease this financial pressure and support families preparing their children for the new school year. On August 18, gift cards were distributed to all 63 pupils of the Johannes Kwamieschool.
RGM invested USD 12,120 in the project. Pupils received gift cards valued at approximately USD 180 on average to help cover essential school related expenses, including uniforms, gym clothing, school bags, sneakers and other necessities.
The project was implemented in collaboration with the school leadership, teachers, parents and the traditional authority of Nieuw Koffiekamp. Feedback has been positive, with stakeholders expressing hope that the initiative will continue in future school years.
Supporting elderly residents
RGM is also supporting 39 elderly residents through its Food Basket Project, a pilot initiative that started in July 2026 and will continue through December. The project represents a total investment of USD 32,802.
The initiative responds in part to the economic impact of the SSM challenges on vulnerable households. Elderly residents often depend on younger family members for financial support, while income opportunities for those family members have become increasingly constrained.
The monthly baskets are based on Suriname’s national basic goods list and include essential food and household products such as rice, flour, cooking oil, chicken, beans, ground provisions, salted fish, powdered milk, peanut butter, washing powder and toilet paper.
The baskets are provided through a central distribution point, where RGM employees volunteer each month to assist with distribution. The goods are also purchased from a supplier within Nieuw Koffiekamp, allowing part of the investment to circulate within the local economy.
Feedback from beneficiaries and the wider community has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing appreciation for the support.
Both initiatives reflect RGM’s broader commitment to education, community well being and sustainable development, while responding to tangible needs arising within Nieuw Koffiekamp. They also reflect Zijin Mining’s purpose of “Mining for a Better Society.”
