Tontokrom- Asanko Mine impasse: Deputy Lands Minister calls for dialogue

A Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker has said that the Ministry is working towards meeting the demands of residents of Manso Tontokrom in the Ashanti Region as a means of bringing a lasting solution to the longstanding conflict between them and mining firm, Asanko Gold Ltd.

The community members say the establishment of a community mining scheme in the area is the antidote for the unending disturbances.

The Tontokrom community members and Management of mining firm, Asanko Gold Ltd have been on warpath since the company attempted to claim ownership of a mining site in the area, more than 5 years ago.

A clash between private security personnel of the mining company and youth of the area over a mining concession, led to the death of three on March 3, 2024.

Mr George Mireku Duker and a team from the Minerals Commission have activated process to bring an end to the disturbances.

At an engagement with the community, the Minister enjoined the youth to be patient as he works to address their concerns.

“The clash that led to the death of the three persons is unfortunate. We pray such incidents do not reoccur. It’s better we use dialogue in resolving issues than violence.

“I’ve seen the situation here at first hand and I assure you that your request will be worked on”, Mr Duker gave his word to the residents.

The residents appear satisfied with the assurance.

“Residents of Tontokrom are content with the assurance. All we are seeking for is a community mining scheme and we are looking forward to it”, Unit Committee Chairman of Tontokrom, Kwabena Animuonyam shares.

George Mireku Duker emphasized the need for both parties to live in harmony.

“It’s very critical for companies and their operational communities to live together because you cannot operate in isolation and therefore it’s important to work hand in gloves to have a win-win situation.

Likewise, communities must find a way of peacefully settling down with mining companies”, he stressed.

Management of the mining firm have also expressed their readiness to be at peace with the community members but want the Minister to intervene and ensure they get access to their concession at Tontokrom.

“We know we can’t mine in a vacuum, so we try as much as possible to dialogue. For now, we are unable to access our site in Tontokrom and that is bringing a lot of cost to the company”, Managing Director for Asanko Gold Mines, Dr Charles Amoah.

The peace talks have begun but residents of Tontokrom say the only solution to the perennial disturbances is establishment of community mining scheme in the area.

The post Tontokrom- Asanko Mine impasse: Deputy Lands Minister calls for dialogue first appeared on 3News.

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