The Paramount Chief of Manso Nkwanta in the Amansie South District in the Asanti Region, Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II, has made a strong appeal to the residents of the Manso area to prioritize dialogue over violence in addressing their concerns with Asanko Gold Ghana, the mining company operating in the region.
This calls for a more constructive approach in the wake of a recent violent clash between the youth of Mpatuam and soldiers guarding the Asanko Gold mine. The clash resulted in the tragic death of a local assembly member and significant damage to properties belonging to the mine’s subcontractors.
“I didn’t like what happened at Tontokrom and Mpatuam. If there is any misunderstanding, bring forth your concerns. Don’t resort to protests. Because of this, Manso is gaining a negative reputation.”
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II
In recent years, there have been series of violences between the residents and Asanko Gold Ghana over possession of portions of the mine’s concessions within the area.
The residents claimed the mine’s existence in the area has not reflected the needed developmental benefits and job opportunities to them.
Addressing the community during the commissioning of a new multipurpose community center, the Paramount Chief expressed his disapproval of the recurring hostilities. “If there is any misunderstanding, bring forth your concerns. Don’t resort to protests,” he added.
Importance of Dialogue
The Paramount Chief firmly believes that dialogue and patience are the keys to resolving any issues between the community and the mining company.
“If we rather have patience and voice our concerns, it would yield positive outcomes. We should meet and have dialogues that fighting each other.”
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II’s appeal symbolizes his desire to see the Manso traditional area prosper through peaceful coexistence and collaborative efforts.
He stressed that when a company operates in a community, it is the responsibility of the residents to protect the interests of the business, while also ensuring that the company considers the community’s needs and livelihoods.
In line with this vision, Asanko Gold Ghana has demonstrated its commitment to partnering with the Manso community.
The company, through its Social Responsibility Foundation (SRF) Development Fund, has invested over 2.3 million cedis in the construction of a modern, fully furnished multipurpose community center.
This facility is designed to serve as a hub for knowledge sharing, cultural exchange, community gatherings, and various development programs.
“Whatever you do as a company, you should always think about the community and how to improve the livelihoods.”
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II
He called for more critical investments that would promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Manso traditional area.
Mutual Understanding
The Paramount Chief’s appeal for dialogue and Asanko Gold Ghana’s commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence reflect a shared vision for the future of the Manso community.
By prioritizing open communication, conflict resolution, and collaborative efforts, the community and the mining company can work together to address the concerns of the residents and unlock the region’s full potential.
He also admonished the residents to see the company as the community’s developmental backbone and protect it. “When there is a company in your area, it is your responsibility to protect the interests of the business,” he stressed.
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II’s message shows the belief that through patience, understanding, and a willingness to find common ground, the Manso community and Asanko Gold Ghana can navigate the challenges and forge a path towards sustainable development, mutual prosperity, and a brighter future for all.
This sentiment was echoed by the Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Asanko Gold Ghana, Dr. Charles Amoah, who highlighted the company’s plans to ensure peaceful coexistence between the mine and the community.
“We are not running the operation in a vacuum. There will always be a misunderstanding. But our operation is to use a dialogue to resolve any misunderstanding.”
Dr. Charles Amoah
The Chief believes the two parties working together to iron out their differences, will path way for last peace in the area.
With the commissioning ceremony also serving as a dialogue forum where the two parties especially the Asanko Gold Ghana converging to share their willingness and unwavering commitment to ending the violence.
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