The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called for a holistic and collaborative approach to tackle the persistent challenges of illegal mining (galamsey) in the Obuasi area.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the management of AngloGold Ashanti to the Manhyia Palace on Friday (24 January), Otumfuo condemned the recent clashes between suspected illegal miners and the company’s security team, emphasizing that the law must be upheld to ensure harmony between the mining company and the community.
Addressing the AngloGold Ashanti delegation, Otumfuo acknowledged the complex nature of the illegal mining issue, which often stems from unemployment and socio-economic challenges.
He commended the National Security and the Army for their efforts to maintain peace and protect the company’s operations but stressed that a long-term solution requires collaboration between the government, mining companies, and local communities.
“I have been briefed about the threats on your employees and the security measures in place. Unfortunately, we do not currently have a Minister for Lands who has gone through vetting to discuss policy matters regarding illegal mining. However, I assure you that once the minister is in place, there will be a thorough discussion with the government and the President on the way forward,” Otumfuo stated.
“We are not living in a banana republic. The law must be obeyed. People cannot just say that because they want to eat, they have to invade the mine. That is unacceptable. Change of government should not give people the license to misbehave or engage in illegal activities,” he stressed.
Otumfuo urged AngloGold Ashanti to strengthen its community relations to foster better understanding and trust between the company and the local population. He suggested that open communication and targeted community initiatives could help mitigate the frustrations that lead to tensions.
“At the same time, your community relations must be heightened so that people have a clear understanding of what you do. The community relies on the mining company, and the mining company relies on the community. Sustaining this relationship is key,” he advised.
He also called on traditional and local leaders, particularly in Zongo communities, to engage the youth constructively to find amicable solutions.
While supporting efforts to integrate the youth into legitimate employment opportunities, Otumfuo reiterated that illegal mining should not be encouraged by anyone, including the government.
“If the young ones want jobs, we need to sit down and plan how best to incorporate them into the mainstream economy,” he added.
Source :
