Concerns and Requests Regarding Azumah Resources' Operations in Our Communities

On Saturday, October 7th 2023, three communities; Nanga, Yiziiri and Tangasia had an engagement with Azumah Resources, putting before the company some pressing issues and asking some critical questions regarding its operation within the area. 

Mr. Ankrah Cletus who presented the Speech On behalf of the chiefs, landlords, elders, and the youth of the three communities, which was covered by Tumpaani Fm, spelled out some of their grievances concerning Azumah Resources' operations. According to him, their aim was to raise important questions and put forth requests to the company regarding its presence and impact on the aforemetiined community.

1. When did you(Azumah Resources) enter our community?

As community members, we are keen to understand the timeline of Azumah Resources' entrance into our community. Knowing when the company established its operations here helps us gain a better understanding of the duration of its presence.

2. How many years have you been working in the community?

It is crucial for us to ascertain the length of time that Azumah Resources has been operating within our community. This information will help us gauge the level of familiarity and experience the company has, in working with our local context.

3. What is the maximum and minimum number of years a mining company takes to do prospecting?

We seek clarification on the duration it typically takes for a mining company, such as Azumah Resources, to complete its prospecting activities. Understanding the estimated timeframe allows our communities to plan and manage expectations accordingly.

4. What are some social responsibilities regarding your operations in the community?

As stakeholders in the community, we are interested in knowing the social responsibilities Azumah Resources acknowledges and fulfills. These include initiatives to enhance the well-being of the community, such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.

5. How many natives have you trained to be part of your company?

Empowering local community members by offering training and employment opportunities is vital for sustainable development. We request Azumah Resources to disclose the number of natives it has trained and employs, fostering local talent and benefiting the community's economic growth.

6. Why is your general office located in a different community rather than your operational area?

We seek clarification on the reasoning behind Azumah Resources locating its general office in a different community from its operational area. Understanding this decision will help us grasp the company's organizational structure and decision-making processes.

Community Requests

In light of the requests raised, the communities wish to make the following requests from Azumah Resources:

- Allocation of twenty-five acres of viable land for community mining, fostering local economic participation in the mining sector.

- Stopping visits by soldiers to nearby communities to intimidate members and causing the abandonment of farmland. We urge the company to address this issue promptly for the well-being of the community.

- Facilitating the revival of farming settlements in the upcoming season to ensure the sustenance of our agricultural livelihoods.

- Regarding the prolonged resolution of differences, we urge Azumah Resources to temporarily halt operations until our concerns are adequately addressed.

- All meetings involving the three communities (Nanga, Tangasia, and Yiziiri) should be held in any of the above communities, fostering unity and inclusivity among community members.

- If our concerns remain unaddressed, we are prepared to involve the media and organize peaceful demonstrations to express our discontent with the current situation.

We are aware of successful coexistence between mining companies and community mining in various regions, such as Obuasi, Tarkwa, Prestea, etc. We urge Azumah Resources to take note of these positive examples and work towards establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with our community. Our goal is to achieve sustainable development, ensuring that both the company and the community thrive harmoniously for years to come.

Nanga Naa, Naa Seidu Fusienu said the community will not have any dealing with the company if their grievances, are not payed heed to.

Filed by // Mwine Paschal 

Tumpaani fm