Konongo Chief Urges Government to Find New Investor for Revoked Mine

The Konongo Traditional Council has endorsed the government’s decision to withdraw the operating licence of Northern Ashanti Mines, but has called for openness in the process of finding a new investor to take over the mining concession.

The Chief of Konongo, Nana Awuah Abedimisa II, described the Minerals Commission’s action as justified, citing concerns about illegal mining activities in the area. However, he stressed that authorities must ensure the process is conducted transparently.

Speaking in an interview with a local radio station, monitored by Akoma News, the traditional ruler said the community supported the withdrawal of the company’s licence, given the challenges associated with illegal mining in the area.

The government’s decision was announced on October 22, following a joint security operation involving police and military personnel at the mining company’s premises.

The action reportedly followed allegations of repeated breaches of mining regulations, including claims that Northern Ashanti Mines had allowed illegal miners to operate within sections of its concession.

Workers were subsequently directed to leave the facility, bringing mining operations to a halt. Security personnel have since remained at the site.

The Minerals Commission has defended the revocation, maintaining that the termination of the mineral rights belonging to Northern Ashanti Mines Limited, formerly known as Owere Mines, was carried out in accordance with the law.

At a press briefing in Accra, the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Isaac Andrews Tandoh, said the company had failed to meet its statutory responsibilities despite being given opportunities to address its outstanding obligations.

He maintained that mining concessions are granted subject to specific legal requirements, which must be respected by every company operating in Ghana.

Meanwhile, Nana Awuah Abedimisa II has urged the government to secure a new investor capable of managing the concession responsibly, particularly regarding environmental protection.

He said any company selected to replace the former operator must demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding the environment.

The Meenahene of Juansa, Nana Tweneboah Kodua Bempah, also supported the Commission’s decision, accusing the former mining operator of failing to adequately engage traditional authorities.

He claimed the company conducted its activities without recognising the traditional leadership’s role as custodians of the land.

Northern Ashanti Mines had not publicly commented on the allegations at the time of publication.

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