Obuasi: Mr Eric Anaane Ndebugri, the Programmes Officer of the Centre for Social Impact Studies (CeSIS), has emphasized the importance of empowering members of mining communities to improve their understanding of resettlement and compensation negotiations. He highlighted that these communities often lack awareness of their rights, making them vulnerable to exploitation by mining companies.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Ndebugri made these remarks during a capacity-building workshop for the Binsere community in the Obuasi Municipality. The workshop, organized by CeSIS, aimed to equip residents with the necessary skills to comprehend policies and legal frameworks related to resettlement and compensation. It also sought to inform participants about their rights and the obligations of mining companies concerning these issues.

The Binsere community engaged CeSIS to enhance their capacity to benefit fully from ongoing negotiations with AngloGold Ashanti regarding the relocation of parts of the community to facilitate mining activities. CeSIS had previously conducted workshops to sensitize stakeholders, including community members and local authorities, about their rights and responsibilities in relation to mining operations and resettlement.

The need for resettlement and compensation in Binsere arose from the construction of a waste management dam by the mining company near certain areas of the community. Mr Richard Ellimah, an analyst specializing in natural resources and government affairs, explained the legal obligations under the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006 (Act 703). He stated that a holder of a mineral right must notify a designated individual within fourteen days following the grant of the right, and any compensation claims must be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.

Mr Ellimah elaborated on the requirement for the holder of the mineral right to remit compensation to entitled parties within three months after the amount is established. He stressed the importance of understanding these legal frameworks to secure benefits.

Mr Samuel Yeboah, a community elder, expressed gratitude to CeSIS, noting that the training would empower community members to understand the implications of mining activities, particularly regarding compensation. He added that the knowledge gained would aid in negotiating for better compensation.