New Obrayeko Residents Demand Fair Treatment from Asante Gold Chirano Mines

New Obrayeko Residents Demand Fair Treatment from Asante Gold Chirano Mines Limited 

The Queen Mother of New Obrayeko, Nana Anima Afra I, together with elders and residents of the community in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region, has called on Ashanti Gold Chirano Mines Limited to address what they describe as outstanding commitments following the community's resettlement more than two decades ago.

According to the Queen Mother and the elders, the community was relocated from Old Obrayeko to make way for mining activities, but some commitments they say were made as part of the resettlement process have not been fully addressed.

They claim the outstanding issues include livelihood restoration, employment opportunities for the youth, social infrastructure and compensation-related concerns.

Community Calls for Dialogue

Nana Anima Afra I said the people of New Obrayeko had demonstrated patience and cooperation over the years but believed the time had come for renewed engagement between the community and the mining company.

She called for transparent dialogue to review the concerns of the resettled community and find lasting solutions to the issues raised.

The elders also appealed to the Mining Company to engage the community on the outstanding matters and consider measures that could improve the socio-economic conditions of residents.

New Obrayeko is among communities within the Ashanti Gold Chirano Mine's catchment area. Company-related records also identify Obrayeko as a resettled/project-affected community.

Appeal to Government and Regulators

The community is further appealing to the government, the Minerals Commission and the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly to intervene and help facilitate discussions between the community and the mining company.

The residents are seeking what they describe as fair treatment and sustainable development after giving up their ancestral settlement for mining activities.

The concerns come amid the company's ongoing community development initiatives in its catchment Asante Gold Chirano  Mines and its foundation have, over the years, undertaken projects in New Obrayeko and other communities, including educational and water-related projects.

The community members emphasised that their concerns should not be interpreted as opposition to mining. Rather, they want outstanding resettlement and development issues to be addressed through meaningful engagement.

They are therefore calling for a formal dialogue involving the relevant stakeholders to review their concerns and agree on measures that will support the long-term development and welfare of New Obrayeko.

Source:Bibianinews.com/Sir Nat