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Tension is mounting in the mining town of Manso-Tontokrom in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region as a long-standing dispute between the community and Asanko Gold Mines over mining concessions intensifies.
Confrontations between security forces and locals have often turned bloody, with Asanko Gold Mines accusing community members of invading its concession—a claim the residents strongly dispute.
In 2024, a clash between residents and private security personnel deployed to safeguard Asanko Gold Mines Limited’s concession left three individuals dead.
Community members and opinion leaders have called on President John Dramani Mahama and the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to step in and find a lasting solution to what they describe as unwarranted brutality.
They are also urging the government to create sustainable mining opportunities for the teeming unemployed youth in the area.
Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanin, the Mamahene of Manso-Tontokrom, criticized the lack of resolution under the previous administration despite several engagements.
On Saturday, residents—mostly youth—wore red bands – and staged a peaceful protest to express their frustrations, urging the government to act swiftly.
One youth leader, Adam Musah, emphasized that mining remains the primary source of livelihood in the area. He warned that without sustainable mining opportunities, many young people would be pushed into joblessness and social vices.
He noted that mining activities had helped reduce crime, including robbery, and called on the government to fulfil its campaign promise to secure concessions for community members.