Binsire Residents Assured Over AGA Tailings Concerns
Residents of Binsire in the Obuasi Municipality have been assured of the commitment of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly (OMA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minerals Commission to safeguard their health and environment amid concerns over the alleged impact of an AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) tailings disposal site in the community.
The assurance was given at a stakeholder and community engagement meeting, where the Municipal Coordinating Director, Madam Joyce Akosua Angmorteh, emphasized the Assembly’s readiness to stand by the people and ensure that their concerns are fairly addressed.
She stated that the Assembly would work closely with all relevant institutions to ensure transparency, accountability and a sustainable resolution to the matter.
EPA Begins Scientific Assessment
The Environmental Protection Agency announced the introduction of an independent consultant, Mr Kakraba, to carry out a detailed environmental and health impact assessment into the allegations. The consultant is expected to begin preliminary work within the next two weeks.
According to the EPA, the assessment will span a six-month period and cover both the rainy and dry seasons to ensure comprehensive and credible findings.
Longstanding Community Concerns
For several years, residents of Binsire have complained that the tailings disposal activities have led to skin-related diseases, air pollution and possible contamination of water sources in the area.
Although previous engagements have been held with stakeholders, community leaders insist that the issues remain unresolved, hence the need for a more rigorous scientific investigation.
Breakthrough on Resettlement
The meeting also recorded progress on the proposed resettlement package for affected residents. AngloGold Ashanti has agreed to allow the community to appoint its own independent consultant to participate in the resettlement assessment process.
This decision, residents say, will help ensure fairness and prevent undue influence in the determination of any relocation arrangements.
Stakeholders Pledge Cooperation
Officials from the Obuasi Municipal Assembly, AngloGold Ashanti, the EPA, the Minerals Commission, traditional authorities, the Assembly Member and other opinion leaders were present at the meeting.
Residents welcomed the renewed commitment from the institutions involved and expressed their willingness to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations and any subsequent processes.
By Ernest Kofi Offen
