"Dialogue and mutual understanding must prevail" – Lands Minister on Asanko Gold, Amansie South clashes

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called for calm and renewed dialogue following violent clashes between Asanko Gold Ghana Limited and residents of surrounding communities in the Amansie South District.

The Minister made the appeal during a working visit to the company’s mining concession on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 — a week after a deadly confrontation between locals and security forces claimed the life of a local Assembly Member and left property worth over US$33 million destroyed.

“Dialogue and mutual understanding must prevail,” Mr. Buah stressed, addressing the leadership of Asanko Gold.

"As a government, we are committed to getting to the bottom of this matter and ensuring that such a tragedy is not repeated.”

The violent incident, which occurred on September 9, was sparked by rising tensions over what residents described as long-standing neglect and broken promises on community development.

The situation escalated when locals reportedly encroached on the mining site, prompting a military intervention that tragically resulted in the fatality.

While commiserating with the bereaved family, the Minister assured them of a full-scale, transparent investigation to ensure justice is served and trust is rebuilt between the company and its host communities.

Mr. Buah also urged Asanko Gold to prioritise community engagement and strictly adhere to mining regulations. “Mining cannot thrive in a vacuum.

The people must see the benefits of these operations in their lives,” he said.

The Minister was accompanied by a high-powered delegation comprising the Acting CEO of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Isaac Tandoh; Advisor to the Minister, Prof. J.S.Y. Kuma; Chief Inspector of Mines, Mr. Kofi Adjei; Director of Communications at the Ministry, Ms. Mawusi Mawuenyefia; and the National Coordinator of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), Ing. Frank Asare.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to restore peace and foster stronger collaboration between Asanko Gold and the affected communities.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith