Ashanti Regional Minister Calls for Cool Heads between Tontokrom Community and Asanko Gold Mine Over Disputed Concession

Ashanti Regional Minister Calls for Cool Heads between Tontokrom Community and Asanko Gold Mine Over Disputed Concession
From Ernest Best Anane, Tontokrom

Dr Frank Amoakohene, The Ashanti Regional Minister has called for calm and restraint between the Tontokrom community and Asanko Gold Mine, following concerns over the community’s alleged takeover of the mine’s legal concession. The Minister interacted with the community and their leaders to understand the issues and find a peaceful resolution.

The Minister emphasized the need for cool heads and restraint, ensuring that the situation does not escalate into confrontations or insecurity. He assured the community that the government is committed to protecting the rights of all parties involved and finding a solution that benefits everyone.
Dr Frank Amoakohene gave the advice when he together with the Chief Director of the Regional Coordinating Council, Representative of Mineral Commission, and Mr Frank Asare , the National Coordinator of the government New flagship policy, Responsible Cooperative mining and Skills Development Programme and Mr Isham Alhasaan, Presidential Staff in charge of Coordinating government programmes in the Ashanti region visited the mining concession in questions at Tontokrom Community.
According to him, the visit to the site gives him the firsthand information to enable him and the Regional Coordinating Council to take an informed decision to settle the matter amicably devoid of any further escalation.
The Minister explained that if the community has documentation indicating that the concession belongs to them, the government can negotiate with Asanko Gold Mine to block an area for the community. However, if the community is working without documentation, they would need to go through cooperative mining to obtain the necessary documentation and operate legally.

The Minister also raised concerns about child labor, emphasizing that children below the age of 18 should not be involved in any form of labor. He urged the community to adhere to this principle and ensure that children are protected.

The Minister also addressed the issue of abandoned pits, urging the community to cover them up to prevent accidents. He thanked the community for their participation and assured them that the government would provide updates on the progress of the discussions.