'We don't need this Chinese company here' - Gambia-Alhassan residents fume

Residents of Gambia-Alhassan in the Prestea-Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region have urged the government to prevent the return of Longshine Mining Company Limited to the community.

They allege that the Chinese-led mining firm took over farmlands for mining activities without compensating affected residents.

Speaking to ChannelOne TV on May 11, 2026, the Chief of Gambia-Alhassan, Nana Tibu, expressed disappointment over the company’s activities in the area.

He said the community had not benefited from its operations.

“Yesterday, when we heard that some of the Chinese had been arrested, we were so happy. The government should give us a company that will bring development to this community. We don’t need this Chinese company here, they are not good people, and they won't help this community in any way,” he said.

Let's tackle 'galamsey' through system strengthening, strategic advocacy – WSUP

The residents are therefore appealing to the government and relevant regulatory authorities to intervene and ensure that any future mining activities in the area prioritise community development, compensation, and responsible mining practices.

The Longshine Mining Company Limited has reportedly operated in the area for more than four years through a joint venture arrangement with Swed Mining, a Ghanaian company that holds the concession.

However, tensions between the two firms over the nature and scope of their operations reportedly resulted in the arrest of some Chinese partners linked to the company by officials of Swed Mining.

Following the development, residents have kicked against the operations of the mining company in the area.

JKB/VPO

Africa no longer on the sidelines of global finance - BoG Governor