Faru Graphite Corporation understands the impact of land acquisition on local communities and the importance of addressing any adverse impacts. The Company has prepared Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) for the Mahenge Graphite Project and the associated infrastructure as a prerequisite for any infrastructural development involving the relocation of people. During the development stage of the RAPs, the Company conducted public consultations with the key stakeholders in planning resettlement activities, negotiate resettlement packages, stakeholder education, resolving grievances and managing stakeholder expectations. The RAPs outline the anticipated social and economic displacement impacts and provides a comprehensive plan for community engagement, compensation and mitigation of adverse effects. It details the land requirements, compensation and housing provisions and public infrastructure for the new Idenke Settlement Area within the Mdindo Village, while ensuring compliance with relevant national and international policies. The socio-economic and ethnographic profile of the project affected communities was explored through socio-economic baseline surveys. Assets impacted by land acquisition were surveyed and evaluated for their value, ensuring that compensation supports the restoration of livelihoods for those affected. Guiding principles, land use planning and other processes for compensation and resettlement were developed. Monitoring and evaluation processes were also developed for continuous improvement.
The Company prepared an Interim Livelihood Restoration Plan to outline mitigation measures for any negative impacts arising from land access required for initial project activities in Mdindo and Makanga villages. The implementation commenced in June 2023 with engagement and consultations with district and village leaders, as well as the project affected households.
In calendar year 2023 Faru Graphite Corporation invested USD146,155 in community development and livelihood restoration.
The Company is assisting the Ulanga District Council and project affected villages to formally open up new farmland areas for impacted project affected households who are engaged in farming practices for their economic livelihood.
The Company will continue to monitor the effectiveness of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Livelihood Restoration programs. The CSR Plan is approved each year through collaboration with the Ulanga District Council and meets the required guidance ratio of 60% district investment and 40% village/local investment.
