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Obuasi residents are up in arms against managers of AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi mine over the company’s refusal to cede part of its mining concessions to community members.
Some held placards which read: “We are tired of the joblessness”, Enough is Enough, AngloGold keeps failing us”, We are tired”, as they marched on the streets Tuesday morning, amid heavy security.
Petition
They further accused the mining giant of failing to consider their natives for employment. Led by the Obuasi Community Mining Association, the demonstrators have petitioned President Akufo-Addo for his intervention as they say, the situation has adversely affected livelihoods and the economy of the mining town.
“Mr. President, we all know that community mining is one of your highly respected initiatives. Many of Obuasi people participated in the community mining training that took place at Tarkwa and has acquired certificates but there is no concession to work on. Mr. President, we want your urgent intervention for the AngloGold Ashanti to release the abandoned mining sites for community mining purposes”, said Frank Antoh, a convener of the group.
Members of our association are prepared to meet with stakeholders to fashion out modalities that shall govern our operations as community miners. We shall commit to paying taxes and royalties to the respective government agencies as well as Nananom. The issue of unemployment in Obuasi and its surroundings poses a security threat and as such should the youth be engaged in meaningful ventures, the security situation would be minimized”, he added.
Further action
All three Municipal and District Chief Executives were present to receive the petition on behalf of the government.
Obuasi Municipal Chief Executive, Elijah Adansi Bonah said: “We have heard you. The petition will be forwarded to the appropriate authorities for further action. I will urge you all to exercise restraints as we start stakeholder engagements to resolve the issue”.
Managers of the mining firm did not respond to calls for comments.
SOURCE: DAILY MAIL GH
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