The Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association in Obuasi is pressing government and AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) for immediate steps to secure a designated mining area for its members, issuing a one-week deadline for authorities to respond.
The Association says it has run out of patience following what it describes as months of stalled engagement after the January 18, 2025 incident in which nine residents were killed when soldiers guarding the AGA concession allegedly fired on community members.
Speaking at a media briefing in Obuasi, the Association’s Secretary, Eugene Annan, said the group feels abandoned despite high-profile interventions after the tragedy.
He referenced the visit of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, who met bereaved families and promised to pursue a peaceful resolution with AGA.
“His Eminence assured us he would engage AGA, and the company also indicated it would allocate a concession for small-scale miners. But months later, nothing has happened,” Mr. Annan said.
Mr. Annan also accused security officers stationed around the mine of continuing to intimidate local miners. He claimed the situation has persisted under AGA’s current Sustainability Manager, Emmanuel Baidoo.
“In this period, military officers are allowed to fire shots unnecessarily in our community,” he alleged, adding that the group has made repeated complaints without receiving assurances of improved security conduct.
The Association insists that AGA has yet to issue a clear plan or timeline for allocating a concession to small-scale miners, leaving its members without any legal site to operate.
“Our chairman has not received any communication from AGA. There is no designated area for us to work in Obuasi,” Mr. Annan said.
He appealed to traditional leaders, government authorities, and local stakeholders to intervene immediately.
“We are giving AGA one week to initiate a comprehensive dialogue on when and where small-scale miners in Obuasi can operate. If this does not happen, we will be compelled to advise ourselves,” he warned.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
