The Ghana Chamber of Mines has expressed deep concern over an ultimatum issued by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi, warning the government and AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG) of unspecified actions if their demands are not met within a week.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chamber described the threats as dangerous and destabilising, cautioning that any attempt by the group to “advise themselves” outside legal frameworks could jeopardise peace and security in Obuasi and the wider mining sector.
Security Operatives Are State-Deployed — Chamber Clarifies
The Chamber also refuted claims that AGAG directly controls military operations at the Obuasi Mine. It clarified that soldiers stationed at the site operate under the authority of the National Security Council, not the mine’s management.
According to the Chamber, the security personnel are mandated to protect the Obuasi Mine—classified as a strategic national asset—and enforce provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
The group stressed that portraying the mine as directing operations against civilians is inaccurate and misrepresents the role of the state.
The Chamber extended condolences to families affected by the 18 January 2025 incident that resulted in the loss of life, describing the situation as tragic but separate from the misinformation being circulated.
AGAG Has Released Majority of Concession Lands
Addressing concerns about land access, the Chamber said AGAG has already relinquished about 60 percent of its original concession to the government. This, it said, was done to support community development and provide regulated areas for small-scale mining.
The statement argued that continued unauthorised access into the company’s fenced, active operational zones undermines efforts to develop a responsible and well-structured community mining sector.
Company’s Socio-Economic Contributions Highlighted
The Chamber emphasised the Obuasi mine’s role in local economic development, citing investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure through the company’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund. It said a stable and secure environment is crucial for these initiatives to continue.
Engagement with Small-Scale Mining Groups Ongoing
Rejecting claims of poor communication, the Chamber noted that AGAG is already participating in tripartite discussions with the government and the leadership of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM). These talks are being guided by a signed Framework of Understanding under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (RCOMSDEP).
The Chamber criticised attempts to issue media ultimatums rather than using established negotiation platforms, saying such actions are counterproductive.
Calls for Government Action and Media Responsibility
The Chamber urged the government to consider ASSMA’s ultimatum a serious security issue and take legally appropriate steps to maintain order and protect lives and property in Obuasi.
It also called on ASSMA leaders to engage through the Joint Working Group and GNASSM’s national structure, stressing that threats undermine peaceful dialogue. Additionally, it appealed to the media to verify claims relating to land and security matters to prevent the escalation of tensions.
The Chamber reaffirmed its support for AngloGold Ashanti and maintained that responsible mining can only occur in an environment governed by law and order.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
