The Ghana Chamber of Mines has expressed deep concern over threats made by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi, which issued a one-week ultimatum to the government and AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG). 

‎The Chamber warned that such threats, made outside legal frameworks, jeopardize peace, security, and stability in the Obuasi municipality and the wider mining sector.

‎Clarifying the situation on the ground, the Chamber emphasized that security personnel at the Obuasi mine are state operatives deployed under the National Security Council, not private security hired by AGAG. Their mandate is to protect a strategic national asset and enforce the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). 

‎The Chamber noted the tragic death on 18 January 2025 and extended condolences to the affected families but urged that security operations not be misrepresented as unilateral actions by the company.

‎The Chamber also addressed claims that AGAG has blocked land access for small-scale miners. Records confirm that the company has voluntarily relinquished approximately 60% of its concession to the government to support regulated community mining. 

‎Unauthorized entry into active mining areas, the Chamber warned, endangers lives and undermines orderly development.

‎AGAG remains a major contributor to Obuasi’s economy through its 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, investing in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These efforts require a secure, stable environment to succeed.

‎The Chamber urged ASSMA leadership to engage through established dialogue platforms, including the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, rather than issuing ultimatums. 

‎It called on the government to uphold public order and the media to verify information before reporting.

‎Reaffirming support for AGAG, the Chamber concluded that responsible mining can only flourish in an environment governed by law, dialogue, and security.

Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan