The President of the Concerned Citizens of Adansi, Anthony Coffie Nature, has acknowledged AngloGold Ashanti’s (AGA) efforts in corporate social responsibility, particularly in building schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure.
However, he argues that these contributions pale in comparison to the canker of unemployment in Obuasi.
Speaking to Kwadwo Sefah-Danquah on the Happy Morning Show on Tuesday, January 21, following the recent violent clash between the military protecting AGA’s concession and small-scale miners which resulted in eight deaths, Mr. Coffie Nature questioned the practical benefits of AGA’s initiatives.
He explained that while schools and hospitals are valuable, they do not address the fundamental issue of unemployment. “If the youth don’t have jobs to earn money, how will they afford to send their children to these schools,” he asked.
Mr. Coffie Nature emphasized that AGA’s corporate social responsibility is not being contested. However, he stressed that the most pressing need for the people of Obuasi is sustainable employment opportunities to improve their livelihoods and make meaningful use of the facilities provided by the mining giant.