Sustainable Business Magazine 06/18

06

SUSTAINABLE ISSUE 06/18

B U S I N E S S

M A G A Z I N E

SURINAME EDITION MR MICHEL AMAFO

DIRECTOR OF THE

MARITIME AUTHORITY SURINAME

N.V. HAVENBEHEER

SURINAME VSH UNITED

ROSEBEL GOLD MINES

S U S TA I N I N G T O M O R R O W. T O D AY

SUSTAINABLE

B U S I N E S S

M A G A Z I N E

SUSTAINING TOMORROW. TODAY www.sustainablebusinessmagazine.net

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M A G A Z I N E

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Editor:

George Newell

Senior Writer:

Marcus Bonnano

Profile Writer:

Liam Pritchett

Contributors:

Michel Amafo

Regional Managers:

Jacob Hall

Graeme Watts

Business Development: George Bell Web Administrator: Ashley Hewitt

CONTENTS ISSUE 06/18

We are pleased to present a special Suriname edition of Sustainable Business Magazine As international interest grows in Suriname’s gold, bauxite, and oil, the Dutch-speaking nation is experiencing rapid economic changes. In this special edition of Sustainable Business Magazine, we take a closer look at some of the key players in Surinamese shipping and resource development, and how they’re working to share the benefits of growth with local people and to protect the country’s extraordinary natural environment.

We begin this issue with a Q&A with Michel Amafo, Director of the Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS). MAS supervises all Surinamese shipping, ensuring compliance with environmental protection and other relevant laws. Mr. Amafo told us about how MAS is facilitating a thriving, sustainable shipping industry in Suriname.

A full 50% of Suriname’s maritime trade passes through the Dr. Jules Sedney Port of Paramaribo. We spoke to Drs. Andreas Talea, Managing Director at N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname, the local port authority, about modernizing the port and developing the small Port of Niewe Nickerie into a second national hub for shipping.

We also spoke to Sjoerd Poort, Managing Director at VSH United, a major Surinamese corporate group. VSH subsidiaries work in logistics, marine transportation, support for offshore projects, discharging and loading vessels, and providing brokerage for major local projects. We spoke to Mr. Poort about being on the front lines of economic transformation in Suriname.

Finally, we spoke to Jerry Finisie, Sustainability Manager overseeing Community, Social Relations, and Environment at Rosebel Gold Mines N.V., a major Surinamese gold mine with an estimated production averaging 300,000 ounces of gold per year for the next decade. Mr. Finisie told us about contributing to community development, government ownership, and protecting the Amazon rainforest while running a profitable mine.

Details of upcoming sustainability events in North America throughout November, December, and January can be found on our events calendar. Our featured events are the Energy Expo (formerly the MiaGreen Expo & Conference) on 23rd and 24th January 2019 at the MACC Convention Center in Miami, and the Water Expo on 28th and 29th August 2019, also at the MACC Convention Center.

Sustainable Business Magazine aims to spread awareness of sustainable values in business, as well as the exciting ways in which organizations continue to meet challenges and champion corporate social responsibility.

We hope that you find this issue both interesting and inspiring. Thank you for reading.

The Sustainable Business Magazine Team

02

Q&A Michel Amafo,

Director of the Maritime

Authority Suriname (MAS)

04

N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname

10

VSH United

14

Rosebel Gold Mines N.V.

22

Global Events

23

Advertisers Index

ISSUE 06/18 COVER IMAGE SHIP ALONG THE QUAY AT THE PORT OF NICKERIE. PHOTO COURTESY OF N.V. HAVENBEHEER.

© SBM Media Ltd 2018. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form for any purpose, other than short sections for the purpose of review, without prior consent of the publisher.

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Q&A MICHEL AMAFO

Mr Michel Amafo, Director of the Maritime Authority Suriname.

Can you tell us a little about the history of Maritieme Autoriteit Suriname (MAS)?

The Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS) was established on the 14th of May 1998. The company is now legally a sui generis entity, which means that, though the company has been privatized, it remains under the supervision of the Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Communication, and is required to operate based on certain rules.

The MAS was established to improve the execution of the duties of the Dienst voor de Scheepvaart (Shipping Services) govern-

2 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ment department on a national and international level, supervising compliance in the shipping industry and improving the service by removing financial and personnel bottlenecks. Since the MAS was privatized, the work of the organization’s founders has been continued under better conditions, allowing us to work on the further professionalization of services and the guarantee of quality based on international standards.

Our objectives are as follow: • Guarantee a safe and efficient passage of ships to and from Suriname based on internationally accepted standards and rules in accordance with the treaties ratified by Suriname.

• Monitoring of compliance with legal requirements concerning navigation and maritime traffic.

Our mission statement is: ‘Assuring safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable shipping.’

Our vision is: ‘To be a professional, commercial-oriented, innovative, and leading organization. Initiating and facilitating maritime development.’

The MAS is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company.

How do you ‘initiate and facilitate maritime development’?

The MAS is responsible for supervising safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable shipping in Suriname. This is accomplished by adopting the highest practicable standards of maritime safety and security, efficiency of navigation, and prevention and control of pollution from ships, as well as through consideration of related legal matters and effective implementation of the standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

The MAS is the designated authority within Suriname responsible for (among other things): • Managing aids to navigation • Conducting hydrographic surveys in accordance with the applicable IHO and other international standards • Providing timely marine safety information • Port state and flag state control • Marine accident and incident investigations • Pilotage As a member of the IMO, IHO, and other regional organizations, the MAS actively participates in and hosts regional and international meetings/workshops to contribute to the development of the maritime sector. Acquired knowledge and gathered information is incorporated into our business operations and communicated to local stakeholders.

To generate more interest in the maritime sector from Surinamese society we annually organize open days to celebrate World Maritime Day, World Hydrographic Day, and the Day of the Seafarer.

To contribute to local and regional capacity building, the MAS established the Suriname Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Academy in 2017. This academy is a professional training academy which delivers AtoN training and capacity building in association with the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) World-Wide Academy. Other training and workshops are regularly organized for local stakeholders. The MAS is also the founder of the Surinaams Maritiem Instituut (Suriname Maritime Institute, or SMI), which provides several maritime courses. Students of this institute and others are given the opportunity to intern in our organization.

What do you do to contribute to a strong, sustainable, efficient shipping industry in Suriname?

The MAS ensures that shipping in Suriname is fully compliant with international requirements. Ships that do not comply with these standards are not admitted to Surinamese waters. The MAS also contributes to the identification of substandard vessels in a regional context.

The MAS ensures that we are always up-to-date with the international guidelines and informs the sector and the government to take necessary actions. Our employees are constantly trained to meet international levels.

Regular monitoring of the navigation channel guarantees that vessels can sail safely into Surinamese waters. Our well-trained maritime pilots are used to provide the necessary assistance to the captain.

With our good financial policies, the MAS can make the necessary investments to continue these services.

The MAS also participates in a regional project (Maritime Technology Cooperation Centres Caribbean) to reduce CO2 emissions from ships to make the industry more sustainable and efficient.

For the sustainable development of the maritime sector, the MAS is currently setting up a national maritime platform (Suriname National Maritime Association). This initiative will result in the compilation of a long-term national maritime plan.

How do you ensure everyone operating in the shipping industry in Suriname is in compliance with all relevant laws?

All fishing vessels and small passenger vessels on public waters are surveyed annually. The permit holders are provided with a certificate of compliance (or seaworthiness) which is valid for one year.

The MAS also conducts regular control and enforcement activities on the Surinamese waterways.

As a signatory of the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (CMOU), the MAS conducts regular port state inspections on foreign vessels entering Surinamese ports. I have been elected as Chairman of the Caribbean Port State Control Committee (CPSCC) for a period of three years (2018-2021). The CPSCC is the executive body of the CMOU. The IMO audit of Suriname was conducted in March 2018. The audit was conducted by me, assisted by the IMO audit coordination team. All the stakeholders and agencies are consulted in this important process. Suriname will fulfill its port, coastal, and flag state responsibilities, related to the IMO Instruments to which it is a party, within the expected time frame.

How are you encouraging environmental and social responsibility in the industry?

The MAS works closely with the National Institute for Environment and Development in Suriname (NIMOS) to execute various projects.

In its business operation, the MAS ensures that environmentally friendly products are used. We also recently switched to pilot boats that use less fuel. The MAS also ensures that cases of oil spills by third parties are dealt with in accordance with the guidelines.

The CSR policy of the MAS is based on a standard of people, planet, and profit. We ensure our operations benefit our employees, creating a safe and pleasant working environment and helping employees find value in their work. Where possible, we also support projects in the community, mainly focused on education and youth development. We also avoid any activities that harm the environment and looks for ways to reduce any negative impact our operations may have on the ecosystem. Profit is not our main goal; we prioritize good governance and quality of our services.

What can we expect in the future from MAS? Our Strategic Business Plan 2018 - 2023 identifies the strategic directions on which our focus will be placed in the coming six years.

To successfully achieve our organizational vision and respond to current and future challenge, the MAS will improve its working practices where needed and foster broader participation with stakeholders in the development of the maritime sector, including using appropriate technologies.

Safety and security in the shipping industry, protection of the environment, and navigation depend on the competence and professionalism of the personnel employed by the MAS. We will continue to train our personnel to an international level and work on further capacity building to provide high standards of service.

The MAS aspires to a leadership role in the further development of the maritime sector in Suriname. c SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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N.V. HAVENBEHEER SURINAME

MODERN MULTIPURPOSE PORT Sustainable Business Magazine speaks to Drs. Andreas Talea, Managing Director at N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname, about streamlining, modernizing, and working with the local community.

N.V. HAVENBEHEER SURINAME IS THE PORT AUTHORITY RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGING AND DEVELOPING THE DR. JULES SEDNEY PORT OF PARAMARIBO.

4 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

THE DR. JULES SEDNEY PORT OF PARAMARIBO.

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N.V. HAVENBEHEER SURINAME

THE DR. JULES SEDNEY PORT OF PARAMARIBO.

DRS. ANDREAS TALEA, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT N.V. HAVENBEHEER SURINAME.

6 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

The Dr. Jules Sedney Port of Paramaribo is the largest port in Suriname. In a country where well over half of GDP is derived from transnational trade, almost all of which takes place by sea, the Port of Paramaribo alone handles 50% of Suriname’s maritime imports and exports. As Suriname’s gold, bauxite, and oil draw growing international attention, the 560,000 people of this Dutch-speaking nation depend on efficient, well-managed ports not only to attract new investment but also to maintain a healthy trade in the staple exports of agricultural products, fish, and timber.

N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname is the port authority responsible for managing and developing the Port of Paramaribo, as well as the Port of Nieuw Nickerie to the west.

Founded in 1971, Havenbeheer Suriname is an autonomous limited liability company owned by the Surinamese government.

Today, Havenbeheer employs almost 200 people across the two sites.

“We invest in the infrastructure,” explains Drs. Andreas Talea, Managing Director of N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname.

“That means the key structures for the shipping lines, stevedoring companies, shipping agents for import/export, and for transfer of cargo. We accommodate customs with our facilities, so they can do their work. We are also involved with the regulation, coordination, and development of port-related activities while creating a business-friendly climate within the port.

Finally, we oversee security as well as upholding international regulations and best practices within the port.”

MODERNIZING OPERATIONS In 2010, in addition to their responsibility to manage the Port of Paramaribo, Havenbe-

SHIP ALONG THE QUAY AT THE PORT OF NICKERIE.

heer Suriname also became the port’s landlord – a historic turning point for both the port and the authority. “What happened is the port was then able to fulfill the demand of the shipping industry by transforming and expanding its capabilities,” says Drs. Talea. “The facility was originally built in the early 1960s through a European Union loan, so by the 2000s, it needed upgrading.

When we took over as landlord in 2010, our main goal was to make it a modern multipurpose port.”

To begin with, operations were streamlined. “There used to be dozens of operators working in the port and it was very chaotic,” explains Drs. Talea. “Now there

are just two: N.V. Integra Port Services (DP World Paramaribo) and N.V. Verenigde Surinaamse Holdingmaatschappij (United Suriname Holding Company). The former handles stevedoring, the latter handles container and cargo handling operations.

In addition to this, we upgraded infrastructural equipment such as ICT systems. It was a major milestone.”

Another milestone was the use of a public-private partnership model to fund these infrastructural developments. “This model will be fundamental for the future development of the port,” says Drs. Talea. “The private sector or the terminal operators, they invest in new port equipTHE PORT OF NICKERIE.

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N.V. HAVENBEHEER SURINAME THE OIL JETTY OF THE DR. JULES SEDNEY PORT OF PARAMARIBO.

ment. Because of that, we have a modern multipurpose port facility.”

GROWING POTENTIAL Since 1995, Havenbeheer Suriname have also managed the Port of Nieuw Nickerie, a regional port 235km west of Paramaribo.

The Port of Nieuw Nickerie, though small, provides access to Suriname’s important rice and banana industries, and Havenbeheer plan some significant new developments.

Havenbeheer Suriname have produced a three-phase plan alongside Surinamese company ACE Consultancy for the port’s development. For now, less-costly investments, such as lighting and improved security, are being prioritized, but in the future, one main objective is a dredging program in the approach channel and the river, as the high tide draft restriction of 3.7 meters is a major obstacle to the Port of Nieuw Nickerie being able to flourish. Later developments will also

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pave the port to enable better container storage, install reefer plugs so that bananas can be stored and exported on site, and even create a turning basin for larger ships.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT As the body responsible for a significant proportion of Suriname’s import and export activities, Havenbeheer Suriname have a significant impact on the local and national communities. “There is an inter-relation be-

CUSTOMER CARE OFFICER ASSISTING A CUSTOMER.

Havenbeheer Suriname also play a leading role in disaster management. “Every year we practice disaster response activities and update the company’s awareness on disaster management,” says Drs. Talea. “When something happens within the port, we have a system of working with firefighters, military, and police to ensure everything runs smoothly. All offices and schools around the port are also an integral part of that response system.

It means we work together to stay aware, so that if something happens then we all know what to do.” tween the port and the people that live in and around the port,” says Drs. Talea. “We do what we can to support the livelihoods and communities of these locals. For example, local schools are supported financially by the company. We also support organizations that work for the benefit of women and children. In particular, we invest in sporting opportunities for children. Another project we’re involved with is smoothing traffic nearby in Paramaribo.”

DEVELOPING FOR THE FUTURE Looking to the future, Havenbeheer Suriname intend to continue upgrading and modernizing. Ensuring the port is upto-date will be essential for the future not just of the port itself but for Suriname in general. “For now we are looking to organize the gate-in and gate-out situation as a priority,” says Drs. Talea. “We have realized that we can do it more efficiently, in a way that will drastically reduce waiting times

at the gate for truckers. This will be done through automating the entire system. We will continue upgrading other aspects of the Port of Paramaribo. The reefer station, for example, is being expanded from holding just 190 reefer containers up to 300 reefer containers. We will also continue upgrading the CCTV system and lighting of the fences. This project is to give us more control over contraband. It also gives us the opportunity to further automate the security system.”

“Finally, we are working on a logistics service center with one of our operators,” says Drs. Talea. “This will give us the opportunity to create more businesses with added value; instead of the traditional import and export, we can develop some more business with a logistics-centered model. This will comprise a core part of a long-term development plan for the port that will generate more activity for us and Surinamese businesses. We recognize our role in the national economy, and we will continue driving economic growth for Suriname.” c

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THE DR. JULES SEDNEY PORT OF PARAMARIBO.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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VSH UNITED

VSH ARE HELPING TO MAKE SURINAME INTO A REGIONAL SHIPPING HUB WITH LINKAGES IN ALL DIRECTIONS.

BRINGING TRADE

TO SURINAME

Sustainable Business Magazine speaks to Sjoerd Poort, Managing Director at VSH United, about shipping expertise, efficient new technology, and driving economic development in Suriname.

2018 is the sixtieth anniversary of the 1958 founding of Verenigde Surinaamse Holdingmij (VSH)-United, a Surinamese corporate group with diverse business strands in shipping, transportation, trading, insurance, banking, real estate development and management, hospitality, steel fabrication, food processing, and detergent production.

Each of the fourteen subsidiaries, located in Suriname, Guyana, the United States, and the Netherlands, is an independent operating entity, and Paramaribo-based VSH-United provides strategic guidance, financial 10 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

and administrative services, and acts as a legal and human resources counsel.

“As a group of companies, VSH is fairly diversified, but since there are a lot of subsidiary companies who are involved in shipping it may be considered our focus,” says Sjoerd Poort, Managing Director at VSH-United. “The VSH Shipping Group consist of four companies. Three of these companies are agencies who represent different shipping lines, and their work involves both logistics and the actual transportation overseas of goods and services. We also

provide support services to off-shore projects, and as a terminal operator we have been working since 1968 discharging and loading vessels. We also provide brokerage for projects, including the two large gold mines here Newmont and Roosevelt, as well as some smaller local companies.”

FRUITFUL LOGISTICS As international interest in Suriname grows, to the benefit of the Surinamese economy, it is more vital than ever that local companies like VSH are able to provide new clients

with effective services. “As a company we want to be a truly effective logistics provider,” explains Mr Poort. “And since there are a lot of excavation and oil exploration projects going on in Suriname we are able to provide agency and survey services to these types of project. We are one of the most experienced logistics providers, and so are able to support these projects very effectively. Ultimately, effective logistics has a positive effect on all other aspects of our operation, including the Surinamese community and economy.”

To drive efficiency in their terminal operations, VSH pairs trained staff with sophisticated software. “We have a dedicated team, as well as an effective and automated software system at the terminal to improve the processing and handling of cargo

containers, et cetera,” says Mr. Poort. “This makes sure that we get all the administration right first time. This system also automatically sends EDI information to carriers, so they are notified when containers enter the port and are discharged from the vessel. Our carriers are looking for the most efficient operations, the main priority is of course safety, but a secondary priority is speed and effectiveness.

So this is something that we are dedicated to 24/7 in order to effectively cater to our customer’s needs.”

When working with international companies, HSE compliance is also a necessity.

“In our standard operations we have a high degree of accountability and environmental compliance,” elaborates Mr Poort. “It’s very important for us to be transparent and fully compliant with ISO standards. We are

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VSH UNITED

involved in anti-corruption and anti-bribery safeguarding, which is becoming very important at the moment.”

TRANS-AMERICAN TRADE Suriname is ideally positioned as a midpoint between North and South America, and as trade between the two continents continues to grow, VSH are helping to make Suriname into a regional shipping

hub with linkages in all directions. “In addition to our other shipping groups, there is also VSH USA,” says Mr Poort. “VSH USA is licensed as a Non Vessel Owning Common Carrier (NVOCC), which basically means that the organisation has the same obligations and rights as an ocean carrier but without operating any vessels of their own. From our new warehouse in Florida, we are able to offer inland logistics and

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We are an investor in the trade and shipping sector of the Republic of Suriname and the owner and operator of Moengo Port.

Our goal is to create new logistic possibilities which will increase business development, economic growth and trust in our relationship with our current and future clients from all over the world.

12 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

air or ocean freight into Suriname or other locations, and we consolidate cargo from many other ports in the USA as well. We have a similar company to this based in Holland, which has been established for about thirty-five years. They process a lot of cargo already, with a view to further developing trade into Suriname as well, and we have been able to use that pre-existing expertise for VSH USA.”

TECHNOLOGY FOR THE FUTURE “The next step for us is we are going more mobile with our automated system,” says Mr Poort. “This will be via handheld devices which can be used anywhere within a port, for example. Due to the wide range of services we provide, VSH is able to manage the complete logistics, stevedoring, agency services, clearance, and purchasing demands for offshore and special projects 24/7. We are upgrading our system at the moment, an ongoing improvement of our technology in order to keep up with new developments

and changes. We try to invest in modern equipment and software as much as we can, as we realize that this has a huge effect on our efficiency and sustainability.”

VSH are very aware of their role in the local economy and how their work contributes to Suriname. “We are very much an import and export economy, so we are very involved with that, both as a port and a logistics company,” says Mr. Poort. “In short, the more effectively we work, the more beneficial it is for the local economy. As a company we always strive for maximum efficiency, along-

side becoming as environmentally friendly as possible. For us, these two things fit together quite well, and enable us to better contribute to the Surinamese economy. We are looking forward to continuing to improve our Miami operations, primarily through our new warehouse in Florida, but also further developing our business and expanding our operations abroad. With our roots in Suriname and with a leading position among the largest logistics companies in the country, our ongoing work solidifies our role in world trade and specifically shipping.” c

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ROSEBEL GOLD MINES

THE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) INFRASTRUCTURE RUNS PROGRAMS AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN THE AREAS OF SAFETY, ENVIRONMENT, AND COMMUNITY LIVELIHOODS.

FUTURE Sustainable Business Magazine speaks to Jerry Finisie, Sustainability Manager overseeing Community, Social Relations, and Environment at Rosebel Gold Mines N.V., about employment creation, community outreach, and working with the Surinamese government.

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Rosebel Gold Mines N.V., located in the Brokopondo district of north-eastern Suriname, began production in 2004, and as of last year had produced 4.4 million ounces of gold. Jointly owned by IAMGOLD (95%) and the Government of Suriname (5%), the 170 km2 Rosebel mining concession has eight open pits, and employs over 1,600 Surinamese employees and contractors.

Rosebel’s latest estimates show a mine life of around ten to twelve years from 2018,

with an expected gold production averaging 300,000 ounces per year.

“The concession that we are working on has a long history, which extends well before we got here,” explains Jerry Finisie, Sustainability Manager overseeing Community, Social Relations, and Environment at Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. “In 1992 Golden Star Resources Ltd. purchased the exploration rights for the area. After gold prices dropped, activities in this area was put on

hold until 2000, when the prices started slowly creeping up again. Some environmental studies were initiated at the time, and we decided to take over and complete these studies. Consequently, construction started in 2003, with production beginning in 2004.

Until last December, this used to be the only large-scale gold mine in Suriname. We have recently acquired additional exploration land that is connected to our current area, which increased our life-of-mine considerably, and

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ROSEBEL GOLD MINES

WE HAVE AN ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT, WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING OUR ACTIVITIES ARE NOT NEGATIVELY IMPACTING THE ENVIRONMENT.

thus ensures job security for our employees in the coming years.”

PRIORITIZING SURINAME As a partly-state-owned enterprise, job creation for local people is a priority for Rosebel. “We employ around 1700 people, of whom over 1600 are nationals, and one of the things that we take seriously is job possibilities,” says Mr. Finisie. “Our project is primarily staffed by Surinamese people and we draw contractors from within the Suri-

namese workforce. Several local companies act as suppliers, and over the years we have seen them grow at the same time as us. We have the largest kitchen in the country at our mining site, and are happy to buy the eggs for our breakfast from a local village chicken farmer who was able to start his company from a community project. The corporate social responsibility (CSR) infrastructure runs programs and development projects in the areas of safety, environment, and community livelihoods. Moreover, whenever possible,

we partner with government and civil society to help deliver more effective and sustainable community development.”

Financially speaking, in addition to regular taxes like the 36% income tax, IAMGOLD Rosebel Gold Mines contributes a fair share to Suriname. “The ownership of the mine is shared with the government,” says Mr. Finisie. “They have a 5% share in the overall operation and they receive an additional 2.25% royalty out of the gold produced by the mine. Then 0.25% of that royalty is directly contributed to the Suriname Environmental and Mining Foundation (SEMIF) for improving mining and environmental practices in the country, which is being promoted by the government and us. This is a national foundation, which is open to anyone to apply for funding of projects related to mining, education, and the environment.”

PROTECTING THE REGION The Rosebel property is located within the Amazon rainforest. “The fact that we are

16 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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ROSEBEL GOLD MINES mining in such a diverse nature area makes us extra aware that we should adhere to the highest possible standards,” says Mr. Finisie. “We of course adhere to ISO guidelines. We have continuous programs with our colleagues to enhance knowledge and expand our joint efforts to operate an environmentally sound and safe mine.

More specifically, we have an environmental department, which is responsible for ensuring our activities are not negatively impacting the environment. A national environmental law, which would also regulate mining impacts, is still in development.

Because there are limited national guidelines, we follow international best practice codes very closely. For example, we have a closed circuit so there is no water from the mine itself flowing into the surrounding environment. There are also industrial hygiene programs that we are running specifically for this area.”

“Since Suriname is an environmentally intact region, both the government and Rosebel Gold Mines are focused on ensuring minimal impacts,” elaborates Mr. Finisie. “The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) created a set of standards in Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM), stating that companies who signed up to be part of it had to abide by their tools and indicators, and demonstrate an appropriate amount of care

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for the local environment, including specifics such as health and safety, biodiversity, sustainability, and the community. IAMGOLD is one of the few mining companies that applies TSM to its non-Canadian operations, such as here at Rosebel and other IAMGOLD sites worldwide. We signed up to this protocol and aim to perform better every time, holding ourselves to the highest of standards.”

COMMUNITY OUTREACH In addition to environmental protection, community outreach is central to the way Rosebel Gold Mines does business. “Since we began construction, we have been building our relationships with the surrounding community,” says Mr. Finisie. “We’re creating infrastructure in a way that gives local people ownership over the platform through which we communicate. We have at least two

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Mozart Security Services has established itself as the leading Private Security Service Provider in Suriname through the combined and traceable experience of more than 35 years in the rendering of quality, effective, comprehensive integrated security solutions in the Caribbean market.

This positions Mozart Security Services to provide the following service offerings through the application of our range of integrated security solutions to meet the ever changing security environment of our clients.

Leaders in High Quality and Reliable Training, Inspection & Consulting Services • • • • • • •

Heavy Equipment Safety & Operation Training

Crane Safety & Operation Training Rigging & Signaling Training Arial Work Platform Safety & Operation Training Crane & Lifting Equipment Certification Inspections Fall Protection Training & Inspections

Workplace Safety Training & Inspections

info@shebs.org +597 8101739/ +597 8795119 Costerstraat 96, Paramaribo, Suriname.

www.shebs.org

Quality, Efficiency, Safety.

We specialize in the highest quality service, providing you with comfortable, safe transportation throughout Suriname.

Always on time, every time

Address: Bazalstraat # 119 T: 452 603 | E: info@mozartnv.com

www.mozartnv.com

Mozart Security Services

T: 458000 / 458887 | F: 450190 | E: leonstransport@yahoo.com

INTERFARM N.V. is one of the most reliable foodservice distributors and ship chandlers in Suriname. We have wide experience in provisions and special supplies for the offshore and mining industries. Service, quality and food safety are top priority for INTERFARM N.V. and we aim at all time to provide first-rate, costumer-friendly foodservice for our customers in Suriname. When it comes to food safety, we meet the most stringent requirements. We recently obtained our HACCP certificate and we have fully integrated the HACCP system into our daily operations.

INTERFARM N.V. has teamed up with Ecolab to offer innovative products and systems, state-of-the-art technology and a global knowledge base. Together, Ecolab and INTERFARM N.V. can provide incomparable products and services across a wide range of sectors including hotels and restaurants, commercial cleaners and laundries, healthcare facilities and food processing plants.

SURINAME’S #1 FOOD DISTRIBUTOR AND SHIP CHANDLER

We are the sole representative agent in Suriname for: • Lavazza

• McCain International

• Yellow Tail

• Ecolab

• Certified Angus Beef

• American Hotel Register

Dr. J.F. Nassylaan #117A Paramaribo, Suriname • South America Tel: (597) 521035 • Fax: (597) 521344

www.interfarmnv.com SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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ROSEBEL GOLD MINES meetings per month with communities for them to make requests for support or give us feedback. Our Community Relations programs focus mainly on education, health and income generation. These programs aim to generate effective sustainable development that will support the long-term growth of successful communities in Brokopondo far beyond the closure of our operations. The rural nature of the area requires us to make substantial investments in basic infrastructure. We have therefore been building schools as one of our priorities, as well as updating existing buildings, training teachers, supporting the schools in terms of transportation, and teaching students in terms of practical skills, such as public speaking.”

This educational component is the centerpiece of Rosebel’s approach to CSR. “We not only have our 1600-plus national employees, we also have a new generation growing up in communities around the mine,” says Mr. Finisie, who grew up in one of those communities himself and is passionate about education opportunities and guidance. “Education is key for them to connect with their future. We run, for example, a ‘dropout’ program to get kids to find their passion, as well as a full scholarship program for high-performing students from the communities who need to move to the capital city, Paramaribo, to advance their

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educational careers. The scholarship not only covers tuition but also ensures those students have somewhere to live, buys them books and school appliances, and gives them access to tutoring – basically all things they need to help them succeed.”

“Our technical support has shown to be invaluable, as well as the social programs we run to help these young adults adapt to the city lifestyle,” says Mr. Finisie. “It is quite a change for those that move from rural areas into the city. Our program helps them to learn basic life skills like budgeting,

expressing your opinion, and presenting yourself. Our priority throughout these programs are the technical-oriented studies, since most of the available jobs in rural Suriname are in the technical fields, and as a developing country, technical skills need to be supported and promoted. To support basic needs in our direct communities and guarantee health services, we joined with the Government of Suriname and Project C.U.R.E. in a health project supplying medical products and services to all health centers in the Brokopondo district and

one hospital in Paramaribo. Next to this, we are now shifting to projects developing income-generating initiatives.”

At Rosebel and throughout Brokopondo, Rosebel Gold Mines partners with local stakeholders to enable sustainable income generation through employment and supply chain benefits. “One initiative has included heavy equipment training for young professionals in nearby villages to help them build the skills needed for employment in the mining sector,” says Mr. Finisie. “Some of our other projects have included the construction of a brick factory that supports the construction of local infrastructure, including local schools and a community centre, and a production facility that supplies fisherman and other locals with a dependable source for ice. Rosebel will continue to support programs that best empower our local communities and generally contribute to an improved standard of well-being in the region.”

SUSTAINABLE VISION Rosebel Gold Mines is currently preparing for a new mining project. “We are develop-

ing a new satellite pit 25km southwest of our current location,” says Mr. Finisie. “We plan to start production by the end of 2019 and are currently amidst of the licensing processes with the government. The new project would guarantee a longer stay of our operation in Suriname. This gives us the opportunity to enhance our existing relationships and expand our sustainable investments. We have developed a 5MW solar farm, the first of its size in the country, that enables us to reduce our expenditure on energy and improve our environmental impact, as well as increase our productivity.

Projects like this, which are mutually beneficial, are things we will continue to explore in the future.” This solar farm will be handed over to the Surinamese government after Rosebel Gold Mines concludes their mining activities in the area.

“We are very proud of the way our future looks today, and we also have a strong connection with our host community.” says Mr. Finisie. “As a result of this connection, we have been rated AAA for our community outreach by MAC. It’s a big win for the company, our employees, the communities,

suppliers, and the Government of Suriname.

Rosebel Gold Mines is one of the biggest players in the gold mining industry in Suriname. Part of what makes us unique is our commitment to continually strive to reach the highest standards in health and safety, minimize our impact on the environment, and work co-operatively with our host communities. Since adopting the Zero Harm Vision in 2008, we continuously seek to add rigor to our health, safety, and sustainability practice, building on the challenges and successes of the past. We know achieving Zero Harm is not only a vision but an ongoing journey which we continue in partnership with our internal and external stakeholders.” c

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GLOBAL EVENTS

NOV 2018

5th - 6th

US Biogas 2018 San Diego, CA, USA

Utilize policy drivers, secure financial support for development and maximize commercial gains from your operational projects. Join over 200 biogas and RNG experts at the 2018 conference to learn how to develop profitable biogas projects using a variety of feedstocks and project configurations.

IEEE REPE 2018 Toronto, ON, Canada www.repe.net

The aim of REPE 2018 is to provide a platform for researchers, engineers, academicians as well as industrial professionals from all over the world to present their research results and development activities in Renewable Energy and Power Engineering.

events.newenergyupdate.com

24th - 26th

This conference provides opportunities for the delegates to exchange new ideas and application experiences face to face, to establish business or research relations and to find global partners for future collaboration.

4th - 6th

Power-Gen International Orlando, FL, USA www.power-gen.com

JAN 2019

Exhibit at the world’s LARGEST power generation event We’re a 30-yearstrong power generation event with diverse content for all forms of energy - with a multi-track summit and knowledge hubs, a huge exhibition with 900+ companies and comprehensive networking and matchmaking. The topics and trends focus on technology, innovation, and policy and will present unmatched insight on the future of electricity generation, including the balance between traditional and renewable sources.

DEC 2018

21st - 24th

National Biodiesel Conference & Expo San Diego, CA, USA www.biodieselconference.org

The National Biodiesel Conference & Expo attendance continues to attract the very best in the biodiesel industry.

NBD wants to assist in your efforts to network, connect and learn. We believe these additions and changes to the program will create boundless networking opportunities and allow you to meet new people with some of the same biodiesel interests.

23th - 24th

The Energy Expo 2019 Miami, FL, USA www.theenergyexpo.com

Presenting equipment, technologies, products and know-how for the solar, energy storage, energy efficiency, clean transportation and smart buildings industries.

The effective commercial hub between North American and worldwide manufacturers and distributors with buyers, professionals, dealers, operators, contractors and potential reps from Latin America, the Caribbean and the United States. 40+ countries under one roof.

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ADVERTISERS INDEX B BDO Suriname

P08

L Leon’s Transport N.V.

P19

C CCC Group Inc.

P17

M Mozart Security Services N.V.

P19

E The Energy Expo I Interfarm N.V.

Back Cover

P19

S SHEBS Consultancy N.V. Sol Suriname N.V. Suriname Drydock and Shipbuilding Company S.A.

T Techman N.V. Traymore N.V. W The Water Expo

P17 P12

Back Cover

P19 P17 P08

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR for these 2 outstanding events in MIAMI, The America’s Business Capital.

Where manufacturers & distributors CONNECT BIG with Latin American, Caribbean & United States HUGE MARKETS 40 countries under one roof!

REGISTER NOW & SAVE!

ENERGIZING

ALL THE AMERICAS!

SOLAR | ENERGY STORAGE | ENERGY EFFICIENCY CLEAN TRANSPORTATION | SMART BUILDINGS

January 23 & 24, 2019

In warm MIAMI - MACC Convention Center

www.TheEnergyExpo.com mail@TheEnergyExpo.com (305) 412-0000

AUG.

8TH EDITION!

28 & 29

2019

In MIAMI

The WATER & WASTEWATER

MARKETPLACE for ALL of The AMERICAS

(305) 412-EXPO (3976) | w ww.TWE19.com

WASTEWATER | SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE | ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES | SANITATION | WATER QUALITY |

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