Ghana Chamber of Mines Condemns Threats Against Anglogold Ashanti; Calls for Respect for Rule of Law and Security Of National Assets
The Ghana Chamber of Mines (the “Chamber”) has noted with deep concern a press statement and
subsequent media reports about a one-week ultimatum issued by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners
Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi to the Government and AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (“AGAG”).
The Chamber views any threat to “advise themselves” outside of established legal frameworks as a
threat to the peace and stability of the mining industry and the Obuasi municipality. We wish to
correct misinformation regarding the security status and land tenure at the Obuasi Mine to de-
escalate tensions.
1. Security Operations are a National Security Mandate
The Chamber acknowledges the tragic loss of life following the incident on 18 January 2025
and expresses its sympathies to the bereaved families.
However, it is imperative to correct the narrative about security operations in Obuasi. The
military personnel deployed to the Obuasi mine are not private security agents acting on the
operational orders of AGAG management; they are State security officials deployed under
National Security Council’s mandate. Their objective is to protect a strategic national asset and
enforce the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). The narrative that mine management is
unilaterally directing security operations against citizens is factually incorrect and misrepresents
the role of the State in protecting national investments.
2. 3. AGAG Has Relinquished 60% of its Concession
The core justification used by the ASSMA for these agitations, an allegation that AGAG has
refused to release land for small-scale mining, is not supported by the facts. Records available
to the Chamber confirm that AGAG has voluntarily relinquished approximately 60% of its
original concession area to the Government of Ghana. This unprecedented release of land was
explicitly intended to facilitate community development and provide designated areas for
regulated, responsible small-scale mining. Continued unauthorised incursions into the
remaining fenced, active operational areas undermine the orderly development of the
community mining sector.
Socio-Economic Contribution & Community Engagement
The Obuasi mine remains a critical contributor to the local and national economy. Through its
10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (“SEDP”) and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, the
mine continues to invest significantly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. A stable,
secure environment is a prerequisite for these community investments to continue
4. Ongoing Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
Contrary to allegations of a lack of communication, the Chamber is aware that AGAG is actively
engaged in tripartite discussions with Government, the National and Obuasi leadership of the
Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (“GNASSM”).
These discussions are guided by a signed Framework of Understanding, which serves as the
Obuasi roadmap towards the Government’s Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills
Development Programme (RCOMSDEP). Bypassing these established structures to issue
ultimatums through the media is counterproductive to peaceful coexistence.
Call to Action
Ghana’s reputation as a safe destination for investment relies on the State’s unwavering commitment
to uphold the rule of law and resolve disputes through dialogue, fostering trust among all
stakeholders rather than coercion.
The Chamber calls upon:
• The Government to treat the ultimatum as a credible security matter and take all lawful measures
necessary to maintain public order and protect lives and property in Obuasi.
• The Leadership of ASSMA should utilize the standing Joint Working Group and the GNASSM
national platform for constructive dialogue, rather than resorting to threats. This approach fosters
peaceful resolution and aligns with the Chamber’s goal of promoting dialogue.
• The Media must verify claims about land ownership and security mandates to avoid inflaming
tensions.
The Ghana Chamber of Mines stands with AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited and reaffirms that
responsible mining can only thrive in an environment of law and order.
By Willam Fiifi Sey
