To contribute to the development of communities while operating our business is a very important aspect of why we do what we do. Since the very beginning with our Operation in Nicaragua and as we have entered into new jurisdictions, community development has always played an essential role.
As stated in the Sustainability Statement of Commitment12, we are committed to contributing to the neighboring communities of the projects we operate in, prioritizing those activities and projects of sustainable development and social investment that mean substantive changes in the quality of life and well-being of the entire community. We will strive to foster the local economy by maximizing local employment and procurement opportunities. From the moment we first arrive we work under a ?Good Neighbour? philosophy. This means we want to see improvements in the short-, medium-, and long-term for the local residents. To this end, we have community development plans in each jurisdiction, which are based on the main community needs, with allocated budgets for these purposes. All of the above has allowed us to build a culture of collaboration with the communities around us.
We consider it essential to involve the community as the main driver of its own development. All matters of community interest are discussed with the communities. The expectations that may arise from each community generally translate into a specific project approach, if it?s necessary, sustainable, and beneficial for most or all the community. Projects are discussed and included in the proposal for the Company?s annual budget cycle. Approved projects are communicated at the beginning of each year and/or before the execution of these projects begins.
For 2024, the Company has outlined a plan for community contributions and/or social investment, which consists of continuing to cover the areas of work that are: Education, Community Infrastructure, Agriculture, Sports and Health. Below are the main achievements in each area of work.
