Ghana: AngloGold Iduapriem faces illegal mining encroachment, operational disruptions

Illegal mining equipment is increasingly encroaching on the concession of AngloGold Ashanti’s Iduapriem Mine, causing operational disruptions and raising concerns about the mine’s life-of-mine, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has said.

The Minister disclosed this after engaging management of the Iduapriem Mine as part of his familiarisation tour of mining companies in the Western Region.

He said the situation required intelligence-led enforcement, stronger inter-agency coordination and effective protection of licensed mining assets.

Mr Nelson said mining activities must be conducted within applicable legal, environmental and regulatory requirements, stressing that no individual or interest group was above the law.

He said protecting mineral resources, water bodies, forest ecosystems and legitimate mining operations remained a priority, adding that he would explore the involvement of the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP/NAIMOS) in strengthening the response.

The Minister commended Iduapriem Mine management for its restraint and commitment to lawful engagement despite the operational pressures.

He also disclosed that AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine had committed to fully fund the establishment of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for the Western Region.

According to the Minister, the proposed ICU would strengthen access to specialised critical care and emergency medical services in the region.

He said the Regional Coordinating Council would continue working with mining companies, businesses and municipal assemblies to improve stakeholder coordination and promote sustainable resource development.

Mr Nelson said the region’s natural resources should generate value not only through production and revenue, but also through environmental responsibility, stronger public services and improved community wellbeing.