1. Security Operations are a National Security Mandate

The Ghana Chamber of Mines (the Chamber) acknowledges the tragic loss of life following the incident on January 18, 2025, and expresses its sympathies to the bereaved families. However, the Chamber deems it crucial to correct the narrative surrounding security operations in Obuasi. The military personnel deployed to the Obuasi mine are not private security agents operating under AGAG management's orders; they are state security officials deployed under the National Security Council's mandate. Their purpose is to protect a strategic national asset and enforce the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). Furthermore, the Chamber emphasizes that the suggestion that mine management is directing security operations against citizens is factually incorrect and misrepresents the state's role in safeguarding national investments.

2. AGAG Has Relinquished 60% of its Concession

The primary justification used by ASSMA for their protests 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 decision was made to facilitate community development and designate areas for regulated, responsible small-scale mining. Continued unauthorized encroachments into the remaining fenced, active operational areas hinder the orderly development of the community mining sector.

3. Socio-Economic Contribution & Community Engagement

The Obuasi mine is a vital contributor to both 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 and secure environment is essential for these community investments to persist.

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 the Government, as well as the national and Obuasi leadership of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM). These discussions are governed by a signed Framework of Understanding, which serves as the 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 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 resorting to coercion. Therefore, the Chamber calls upon:

• The Government to regard the ultimatum as a serious 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, instead of resorting to threats. The Ghana Chamber of Mines believes that this approach fosters peaceful resolution and aligns with its goal of promoting dialogue.
• The Media should verify claims regarding land ownership and security mandates to prevent inflaming tensions.

The Ghana Chamber of Mines serves as the main association for the mining industry in Ghana, representing the collective interests of companies involved in mineral exploration, production, and processing. The Ghana Chamber of Mines has reaffirmed its solidarity with AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited, insisting that responsible mining can only thrive in an environment of law and order.