Residents of Obrayeko in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality of the Western North Region have expressed concern over what they describe as neglect by Asante Gold Corporation’s Chirano Mines following their resettlement due to mining activities.
According to the residents, the mining company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the community after the resettlement, outlining several commitments aimed at improving their living conditions.
Nana Animaa Afari, Queen Mother of Obrayeko, said the company promised to fence the community’s school, provide potable water and create employment opportunities for residents.
However, she alleged that the company has failed to fulfil these commitments, leaving residents to struggle with basic amenities and limited employment opportunities.
She has therefore appealed to relevant stakeholders to intervene and ensure that the mining company honours the commitments made to the community.
The Chief of Obrayeko and Kyidomhene of the Chirano Traditional Council, Nana Kwaku Kyem, also accused the mining company of neglecting the community’s development needs.
He said some of the houses constructed during the resettlement exercise were not properly structured, while residents continue to face challenges, including inadequate access to potable water.
Nana Kwaku Kyem added that several meetings had been held with the management of the mining company, during which assurances were given to address the concerns, but he claimed that the promised interventions had not been fulfilled.
He further alleged that residents have been denied employment opportunities despite the community being directly affected by the mining company’s activities.
The residents are therefore calling on the mining company, traditional authorities, the municipal assembly and other relevant stakeholders to intervene and address their concerns.
Responding to the allegations, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Chirano Asante Gold Corporation, Kwabena Owusu-Ampratwum, said the matter is currently before the court.
According to him, the Obrayeko community has taken the company to court over the allegations.
He explained that the company would not comment on the matter because it is currently before the court.
We cannot speak on a matter that has been taken to court,he said.
By Emmanuel Sowah
