Elder Noble Augustine Awere Damoah, CEO of Juaben Rural Bank PLC, has reaffirmed the bank’s steadfast dedication to community development, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and environmental sustainability through an ambitious tree-planting initiative.

He also called on corporate entities and individuals across Ghana to embrace their societal responsibilities, emphasising that CSR is not merely an option but a crucial investment in the nation’s future.

The remarks came during an interview following the bank’s 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Juaben, which saw unprecedented shareholder participation and festive celebrations coinciding with the Christmas season.

Elder Damoah highlighted that the bank’s focus extends far beyond profit.

“Our priority is the well-being of the communities and individuals with whom we transact,” he stated, underscoring the bank’s 40,000-tree planting project, launched during its 40th anniversary in 2024.

“So far, we have planted a significant number of trees toward our 40,000-goal, and we are not going to rest on our laurels,” he said, adding, “There is a saying that ‘when the last tree dies, the last man dies.’ We are committed to acting before that happens. Whatever we can do to improve our community and environment, we will do.”

Elder Damoah encouraged other corporate entities and individuals to join the effort, saying, “If every person in Ghana plants at least one tree each year, our nation will become a better place to live.”

Beyond environmental initiatives, the bank announced a major community development project to establish a modern market center. Elder Damoah revealed that the bank is dedicating over 12 plots of land, initially granted by the Juaben Traditional Area (Nana Otuo Serebour II), for the market project.

“The bank is offering the land for the market and is seeking partners to develop it into a modern market center for the region,” he explained.

The AGM also celebrated the bank’s strong financial performance, marked by a notable increase in dividend payments and record shareholder attendance. Elder Damoah described the meeting as “a unique blend of our AGM and Christmas celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere for all present.”

Dr Nana Appiagyei Dankawoso I, board chairman and chief linguist of the Juabenhene, expressed appreciation for the robust turnout and reaffirmed the bank’s focus on delivering consistent returns while expanding its reach. A major highlight of the AGM was the inauguration of the bank’s 12th branch in Atonsu Agogo, aimed at improving customer access.

Dr Dankawoso also emphasized the bank’s environmental commitment, echoing the sentiment, “When the last tree dies, the last man dies.” Looking forward, he revealed plans for a new market development project in Asante Juaben, designed to stimulate community growth and economic progress.

The AGM concluded with heartfelt Christmas greetings from both Elder Damoah and Dr Dankawoso, reiterating Juaben Rural Bank’s dedication to strong community ties, sustainable development, and responsible corporate citizenship.