The Ghana Chamber of Mines has condemned threats issued by the Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association (ASSMA) in Obuasi, cautioning that the group’s one-week ultimatum to the government and AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana) Limited (AGAG) poses a serious risk to national security and the stability of the mining industry.
In a statement issued on 2 December, the Chamber said any attempt by the group to “advise themselves” outside lawful channels amounts to an act that could inflame tensions in Obuasi and undermine ongoing dialogue aimed at resolving concerns around mining concessions and security operations.
The Chamber clarified that security personnel stationed at the Obuasi Mine operate under the mandate of the National Security Council—not AGAG—and are deployed to protect a strategic national asset in line with the Minerals and Mining Act. It noted that claims suggesting mine management directs military operations against citizens are “factually incorrect.”
Addressing concerns raised by ASSMA over land access, the Chamber stated that AGAG has already relinquished about 60 percent of its original concession to the government to support community development and regulated small-scale mining. It warned that unauthorised entry into the company’s remaining fenced operational zones undermines efforts to develop a responsible community mining sector.
The statement also highlighted AGAG’s contributions to the local economy through its 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan and the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, emphasising that security and stability are essential to sustaining these interventions.
The Chamber further noted that AGAG is engaged in ongoing tripartite discussions with government and leadership of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) under a Framework of Understanding aligned with the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme. It described public ultimatums as counterproductive to peaceful dialogue.
Calling for action, the Chamber urged government to treat the ultimatum as a security concern, asked ASSMA leadership to return to established mediation platforms, and encouraged the media to verify claims on land and security matters to avoid fuelling tensions.
The Chamber reaffirmed its support for AngloGold Ashanti and said responsible mining in Ghana can only thrive in an atmosphere of law, order, and constructive engagement.
