The Artisanal Small-Scale Miners Association in Obuasi, in the Ashanti Region, has issued a one-week ultimatum to the government, AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Obuasi Mine, and the National Chief Imam to take decisive action toward securing an authorised mining site for its members.

“We are pleading with the government and stakeholders in Obuasi and Nananom. We are giving AGA a one-week ultimatum to come out with a comprehensive dialogue on when and where we can get a place to work. Otherwise, we will advise ourselves,” the Association’s Secretary, Eugene Annan, said while addressing journalists in Obuasi.

The Association cautioned that should the authorities fail to respond within the stipulated timeframe, it will be compelled to advise itself.

“The National Chief Imam, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, came to Obuasi to console the families and promised to speak to AGA to resolve the issue. AGA promised to give a concession to a small-scale miners association to work, but up to now, we have not heard anything from them,” the Association’s Secretary, Eugene Annan added.

The ultimatum comes in the wake of the January 18, 2025, incident in which nine residents were killed after military officers guarding the AGA concession allegedly opened fire on members of the community.