The Oheneba Poku Foundation, a non-profit organization, has noted with concern the ongoing tensions between residents of Obuasi, especially small-scale miners, and AngloGold Ashanti (AGA).

This follows a violent clash on Saturday January 18, 2025, between some illegal miners and the military which led to the killing of nine persons and injuries to several others.

In a statement, the Oheneba Poku Foundation urged all stakeholders, including AngloGold Ashanti and the Obuasi community, to engage in a peaceful resolution through constructive dialogue.

“We believe this situation underscores the urgent need for open dialogue, mutual respect, and responsible corporate and community engagement,” read the statement, signed by Oheneba Nana Kofi Poku, Chairman of the Foundation.

The Foundation is deeply rooted in the values of environmental stewardship, social empowerment, and ethical development, particularly within the context of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) in Africa.

The statement urged the mining company to commit to adopting the Africa Responsible Mineral Sourcing Initiative (ARMSi) to ensure transparency in allocation of revenue to support community development and environmental stewardship.

The initiative launched last year seeks to promote ethical sourcing, transparency, and sustainability in the mineral sector.

This, the Foundation believes, could contribute to finding a lasting solution to the struggle between the local miners and the company.

“We urge AngloGold Ashanti to join ARMSi and publicly commit to adopting its guidelines, including transparency in revenue allocation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship,” the statement read.

It further called on stakeholders across Africa’s mining industry, including AngloGold Ashanti, to align their operations with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

The Foundation encouraged AGA to reassess its corporate social responsibility programs to ensure they address the pressing needs of the mining town, including prioritizing employment opportunities for the local youth.

“We recommend immediate and transparent discussions about the environmental impact of AngloGold Ashanti's operations, coupled with actionable plans for land reclamation, pollution control, and community health safeguards,” the statement further noted.

The Oheneba Poku Foundation recommended shared responsibility between mining companies and host companies.

“It is imperative that the benefits of mining activities, including royalties and other resources, be equitably shared with the Obuasi community to support development and reduce socio-economic disparities,” portions of the statement further indicated.

The government has also been asked to facilitate a mediation process between both parties.

This approach will ensure a fair resolution and adherence to international best practices that prioritize sustainable development and ethical resource management.

Full statement below: