A storm is brewing in the Western Region as community leaders sound the alarm over the future of the historic Aboso underground mines, warning that any interference with the current mining arrangements could trigger severe economic hardship and political unrest.
In an emotional appeal, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman for the Aboso Constituency, Osumanu Dawuda, has called on President John Dramani Mahama and the party’s leadership to intervene before it’s too late.
Since their closure decades ago, the old Aboso mines have transformed from abandoned relics into a vital sanctuary for unemployed youth from across Ghana. According to local leaders, the underground mining operations provide livelihoods for thousands of young graduates and job seekers who would otherwise have no source of income.
“This place contains the old mines—the old Aboso mines. They left it abandoned for many years, since it shut down around 1957. When our forefathers left, they were not paid any compensation. They departed with absolutely nothing,” Chairman Dawuda stated.
Local leaders are quick to point out a critical distinction: unlike the destructive surface mining operations that have devastated communities elsewhere in Ghana, the Aboso mines operate underground, posing no threat to local water bodies or the environment.
“Currently, this mine sustains the entire of Abosokrom. Youth from across Ghana, who have finished school and are unemployed, come here to make a living. Because it is underground mining and not surface mining, it does not destroy our water bodies,” Dawuda explained.
The situation has become increasingly tense following rumors of privatization or structural changes to the mining operations. Chairman Dawuda alleges that political interference began around 2016 and 2017 under the erstwhile NPP administration, and recent developments have only heightened community anxiety.
“But recently, we have heard rumours that they want to take over these old shafts and hand them over to a foe that, instead of giving it out to the citizens,” he warned.
Rather than risking a hostile takeover, community leaders are appealing to the NDC leadership to consider transitioning the site into a sustainable cooperative mining system that would benefit the local population directly.
The Chairman concluded with a stark warning that has sent ripples through the political establishment: if the livelihood of the youth is compromised, the ruling party risks losing its political grip on the area, and local security forces could face unprecedented challenges in maintaining peace.
“If this livelihood is taken away, the party will suffer because no one here will understand or accept it. I want this message to reach President Mahama directly, so he knows what is happening on the ground. If we do not handle this carefully, we will lose the peace here,” Dawuda cautioned.
“At the same time, this will give the police a massive job to do. We do not want to see any chaos in Abosokrom. We are pleading with President Mahama, the incoming Minister, and NDC executives: please look into this matter and protect our community.”
The Aboso mines represent more than just a source of income they symbolize hope for thousands of young Ghanaians struggling to find employment in an increasingly challenging economy. Any disruption to this delicate ecosystem could have far-reaching consequences:
· Economic Collapse: Thousands of families depend on income from mining activities
· Youth Unemployment Crisis: Without the mines, many young people would have no alternative
· Security Concerns: Large-scale unemployment could lead to social unrest
· Political Fallout: The ruling party could lose significant support in the region
Local stakeholders are urging the leadership of the National Democratic Congress to act swiftly to address these grievances before local frustrations escalate further. The community is calling for:
1. Transparent dialogue between government officials and local leaders
2. Community-centered solutions that prioritize local livelihoods
3. Preservation of the current mining structure that has proven sustainable
4. Protection from privatization that could displace thousands of workers
As Ghana navigates its economic challenges, the Aboso mine controversy highlights the delicate balance between development, environmental protection, and social stability.
For the thousands who depend on these historic underground shafts for survival, the message is clear: any change must come with community consent, or the consequences could be severe.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
