Angela List, Adamus CEO
The youth in Nzema in the Western Region have hit back at Adamus Resources Limited after the company reportedly described them as ‘illegal miners’ following recent protests over the alleged release of mining concessions to foreign nationals.
The youth say they are only demanding fairness and transparency from the mining company over how some of its concessions are being used.
Their reaction follows a press statement issued by Adamus Resources which suggested that the demonstrators were illegal miners who were hiding behind the concerns of local youth to push their own interests.
But the youth say that claim is misleading and unfair.
Speaking on behalf of the youth at Salma, youth leader, James Kwoffie, said they are not involved in illegal mining and should not be branded as galamseyers.
According to him, the protest was organised by genuinely concerned young people who feel neglected and sidelined by the company.
He said many of the youth have repeatedly appealed to Adamus Resources for access to portions of its concessions for community-based mining activities but their requests have been ignored.
Mr. Kwoffie argued that while local youth continue to be denied access, the company has allegedly released some of its concessions to foreign nationals.
He said this is what has angered many people in the area.
According to him, the youth cannot understand why Adamus Resources would refuse to engage local people, only to turn around and allow foreign nationals to operate on parts of its concessions.
However, he insisted that many residents believe the foreigners are rather engaging in illegal alluvial mining activities.
Mr. Kwoffie said the explanation being offered by Adamus Resources does not add up. He admitted that the mining law allows the Lands Ministry to approve for mining support services.
However, he said the youth need clarity on the exact nature of the work being carried out by the foreign nationals on the concessions.
The youth leader claimed that about seven locations on concession belonging to Adamus Resources have been handed over to foreign nationals under what the company describes as mining support services.
He questioned whether Adamus Resources has been given the approval by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for this kind of mining support services.
According to him, these are the questions that the company has failed to answer.
The youth are also wondering why Adamus Resources has been unable to give access to mining opportunities while at the same time making room for foreigners.
The youth have since petitioned the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to intervene, warning that the growing frustration in the area could lead to a more serious security problem if swift action is not taken.
A Daily Guide Report