The Ghana Chamber of Mines has strongly condemned a one-week ultimatum issued by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi to the Government and AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG), warning that such threats risk unsettling the peace and stability of the mining sector.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chamber described the ultimatum—anchored on a vow by the group to “advise themselves” should the government fail to act as a worrying departure from lawful channels of engagement The Chamber said rising tensions in Obuasi need to be defused with facts, transparency, and dialogue, not brinkmanship.
Security Presence Is a State Mandate, Not Mine Control
Addressing public confusion over security operations in the Obuasi enclave, the Chamber clarified that military personnel currently stationed at the mine are there under the authority of the National Security Council, not as private enforcers of AGAG.
The intervention followed the tragic January 18, 2025 incident that resulted in the loss of life. While expressing sympathy to the bereaved families, the Chamber stressed that the security forces are performing a national duty protecting a strategic national asset and enforcing the Minerals and Mining Act.
“The narrative that mine management is unilaterally directing security operations against citizens is factually incorrect,” the statement emphasized, calling on the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation.
AngloGold Has Released Majority of Its Concession
The Chamber also rejected claims that AGAG has refused to cede land to accommodate small-scale miners in Obuasi. According to the statement, the company has already relinquished about 60% of its original concession to the Government of Ghana—one of the largest voluntary releases of mining acreage in the country’s history
That land, the Chamber noted, was specifically intended to support community mining and regulated small-scale operations. It cautioned that continued unauthorised incursions into the fenced operational areas of the mine undermine efforts to develop responsible, structured community mining zones.
Economic Contribution and Community Investments at Risk
Beyond the legal debates lies another concern: the long-term well-being of Obuasi itself. The Chamber highlighted the mine’s ongoing contributions through its 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, which channel funds into local education, health, and infrastructure.
“These investments thrive only in an environment where operations are secure,” the statement noted, urging residents and groups to protect the stability of the township.
Constructive Dialogue Already Underway
Responding to claims of poor engagement, the Chamber disclosed that AGAG is actively participating in tripartite discussions involving the government and leadership of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM). These interactions are guided by a Framework of Understanding that outlines a roadmap for the Government’s Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (RCOMSDEP).
“Bypassing these established structures to issue ultimatums through the media is counterproductive,” the Chamber cautioned.
Chamber Calls for Restraint
Reaffirming the mining industry’s commitment to responsible and lawful operations, the Chamber urged government agencies, local mining groups, and the media to act with care to avoid heightening tensions.
It called on the government to treat ASSMA’s ultimatum as a security concern and take necessary steps to safeguard public order in Obuasi. It also appealed to ASSMA to use existing negotiation platforms rather than resort to threats and urged journalists to verify claims surrounding land ownership and security matters.
“The Chamber stands with AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited and reiterates that responsible mining can only flourish in an atmosphere of law and order,” the statement concluded.
Story By: Eric Boateng
