'We got nothing from them' - Konongo, Juansa Chiefs back Northern Ashanti Mines' exit

Traditional authorities in Konongo and Juansa have thrown their weight behind the government's decision to terminate the mining lease of Northern Ashanti Mines Limited, accusing the company of failing to adequately engage host communities and contribute to their development.

The chiefs say the Minerals Commission's decision is a necessary step towards enforcing Ghana's mining laws and ensuring that mining companies fulfil their financial, regulatory and social responsibilities to communities affected by their operations.

The government's decision followed a dispute between the Minerals Commission and Northern Ashanti Mines over alleged regulatory breaches, including outstanding mineral right fees and concerns about the company's engagement with local communities.

In a statement, the Minerals Commission cited Section 24 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), which requires holders of mineral rights to pay the prescribed annual mineral right fees.

According to the Commission, Northern Ashanti Mines had accumulated US$8.33 million in unpaid fees relating to its mining leases between 2010 and 2025. The company was also said to owe an additional US$49,928 in fees relating to prospecting licences covering the period from 2019 to 2025.

The Commission maintained that the company had been given an opportunity to regularise its position but failed to address the identified breaches.

Northern Ashanti Mines has, however, challenged the termination through legal proceedings against the state, setting the stage for a legal contest over the decision.

Despite the ongoing dispute, traditional authorities in Konongo and Juansa have welcomed the government's action, insisting that mining companies operating within their traditional jurisdictions must be held accountable.

The chiefs, whose traditional areas cover the 595 cadastral mining blocks associated with the lease, say their communities have not received the level of engagement and development support expected from the mining company.

They argue that mining activities must translate into tangible benefits for host communities, particularly through employment opportunities for the youth, meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives and responsible mining practices.

The traditional authorities have consequently expressed their readiness to welcome a new investor or mining company willing to prioritise the welfare of residents and work closely with local leadership.

Nana Tweneboah Kodua Bempah, Chief of Mennam in the Asante Akyem North District and spokesperson for the Juansa Paramountcy, and Nana Dr Awuah Abedimisa, Chief of Konongo, are among the traditional leaders supporting the decision.

Their position adds a significant traditional authority dimension to the dispute, with the chiefs making it clear that securing a mining lease should come with obligations to the people whose lands and communities are affected by mining operations.

The controversy has renewed attention on the responsibilities of mining companies in Ghana, particularly the need to balance mineral extraction with regulatory compliance, community participation and local development.

EA