Two major shareholders of Wanguo Gold Group Limited (Wanguo) in Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML), Mingqing Gao and Jinzhu Gao, have donated $1.5 million to landowners and the surrounding community in Central Guadalcanal.
Of the total amount, $1 million will be distributed equally amongst the 21 churches in the community, with each church receiving $50,000.
The remaining $500,000 will be allocated to support elderly people and persons living with disabilities.
The donation was made through the Gold Ridge Foundation, which was established last year.
The contribution coincided with Wanguo’s celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse.
It also comes in the aftermath of the January 20, 2026 riot, during which unknown individuals burned approximately 30 GRML machines.
Speaking during the presentation, Mingqing Gao said that when he first arrived at Gold Ridge ten years ago, he developed a deep appreciation for the people and the natural environment.
He added that the company intends to continue operating at Gold Ridge for the next 100 years.
Walton Naezon, Chairman of Gold Ridge Community Investment Ltd (GCIL) and Director of GRML, called on chiefs, elders and community members to support Gao.
He said he had researched Gao’s background online before forming his opinion.
“You will see that he gives back what he takes from your resources. There are bridges, roads and many investments and forms of assistance for you and the next generation,” he said.
Dick Douglas, representing the Gold Ridge Community and Landowners Council and 16 tribes, acknowledged Gao for the assistance provided.
Douglas described the donation as the first of its kind in Solomon Islands by any company.
“I encourage any big company in Solomon Islands to follow the same path so our people can feel and see the benefits,” he said.
He added that the donation has strengthened the relationship between the company, local landowners and the surrounding communities.
Mr Douglas also apologised to GRML during the event for the recent burning of machines.
Wanguo Group holds a 90 percent share in GRML, while Gold Ridge Community Investment Ltd holds the remaining 10 percent.
