Youth of Nzema in the Western Region have rejected the “illegal miners” label used by Adamus Minerals Limited in a recent press release.
The rebuttal follows a demonstration by the youth against what they describe as the unlawful ceding of portions of the company’s concession to foreigners for illegal mining.
In its statement, Adamus Minerals Limited denied the allegations raised by the youth. The company further stated: “Credible sources indicate that the reported demonstration was staged by illegal miners masquerading as community representatives.”
But James Kwoffie, spokesperson for the youth of Nzema, insists the demonstrators are legitimate residents demanding corporate accountability.
He described the company’s characterization of them as illegal miners as “misleading and unfair.”
According to Mr. Kwoffie, Adamus should provide evidence to support its claim that the foreign nationals operating in the mine are only providing support services, as indicated in its press release.
To the youth, the activities amount to alluvial mining, which is illegal under Ghana’s mining laws.
“We need clarity on the exact nature of the work being carried out by these foreign nationals. Why are local people sidelined while foreigners are welcomed onto the same concessions?” Mr. Kwoffie asked.
Background
Residents of the Nzema East community have, for about three months, been agitating over the mining operations of Adamus Resources Limited.
Aside from demanding that part of the concession be allocated for community mining, they also believe the company has exceeded its operational boundary.
There have since been a series of clashes between the indigenes and the mining firm, some of which have nearly turned violent.
Last weekend, residents staged another protest against the operations of Adamus Resources Limited.
Adamus Resources Limited had not responded to the youth’s latest demands at the time of publication.
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