The Parliamentary Select Committee on Science and Technology has embarked on a three-day working visit to the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Gold Mine to assess the company’s compliance with Ghana’s environmental and mining regulations. The visit forms part of Parliament’s constitutional oversight mandate, with a particular focus on the mine’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and adherence …
Ghana: Committee examines EIA, regulatory compliance at AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi
The Parliamentary Select Committee on Science and Technology has embarked on a three-day working visit to the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Gold Mine to assess the company’s compliance with Ghana’s environmental and mining regulations.
The visit forms part of Parliament’s constitutional oversight mandate, with a particular focus on the mine’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and adherence to Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 246, which governs environmental protection in mining operations.
Leading the delegation, the Ranking Member of the Committee, Prof. Hamza Adam, described the visit as a fact-finding mission prompted by growing concerns over the degradation of water bodies in mining communities across the country.
He noted that the Committee is keen to examine how AngloGold Ashanti is managing its environmental responsibilities, especially in areas related to water protection and waste management, stressing that Parliament has the authority to recommend the suspension or revocation of mining licences where serious violations are established.
“Several water bodies in mining areas have been severely affected, and Parliament must ensure that mining companies comply fully with environmental regulations,” Prof. Hamza Adam stated.
However, he emphasised that the Committee’s engagement with AngloGold Ashanti was not intended to victimise the company or any individual, but rather to promote responsible, transparent and sustainable mining practices in line with national laws and international standards.
Welcoming the Committee, the Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, Ing. Samuel Pope, introduced members of the mine’s management team and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
He stated that environmental sustainability remains a top priority for AngloGold Ashanti, adding that the Obuasi Mine operates in strict compliance with regulatory requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Minerals Commission and the Lands Commission.
Ing. Pope further noted that the company’s operations are guided by international best practices, underscoring AngloGold Ashanti’s resolve to balance mineral production with environmental protection and community well-being.
