- Ongoing mining dispute between Manso-Tontokrom residents and Asanko Gold intensifies
- Community denies claims of concession invasion; accuses company of using brutal force
- Youth protest in red, demanding legal access to mining and government support
Mounting tensions in Manso-Tontokrom, a mining town in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, have reignited conflict between the local community and Asanko Gold Mines over contested mining concessions.
The long-standing standoff has grown increasingly volatile, with frequent confrontations between residents and security forces. Asanko Gold Mines has accused locals of trespassing on its concessions—an allegation community members strongly deny.
A particularly deadly clash in 2024 left three people dead when private security forces opened fire on residents. In retaliation, two members of the security team were lynched, and another was seriously injured.
Locals allege continued military harassment and brutality, claiming that armed personnel deployed to protect the mine routinely intimidate and assault residents. With high youth unemployment, about 90% of young people in the area are involved in illegal mining, which they see as their only means of survival.
The latest unrest follows reports that Asanko Gold Mines may again deploy military personnel to the area—prompting strong resistance from residents, who are calling for government intervention.
Appeals have been made to President John Dramani Mahama and Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to mediate and bring lasting peace. Locals say prior attempts to resolve the conflict have failed.
Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanin, the Mamahene of Manso-Tontokrom, criticized the government’s inaction, saying:
“We’ve had multiple meetings since the former DCE’s time, but nothing has changed. We want Asanko to respect its boundaries and stop harassing our people.”
On Saturday, hundreds of youth staged a peaceful protest wearing red bands, demanding action and sustainable mining opportunities.
Youth leader Adam Musah stressed that mining is the community’s main source of livelihood, warning that failure to provide legal alternatives would drive more young people into poverty and crime.
“During the elections, we were promised support. Now Asanko wants to reclaim everything, and we are being pushed out. The government must intervene to protect our right to work,” he said.
The Amansie South District Security Council (DISEC) has since stepped in, holding emergency talks with stakeholders to prevent further escalation.
When contacted by Citi News, Asanko Gold Mines said it would respond to the concerns in due course.
