Tension is rising in the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality of the Western Region.
This situation follows as a dispute unfolds between local traditional authorities (Nananom) and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly, Mr Ebenezer Cobbina over a proposed Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) involving AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in Tarkwa.
According to sources close to the traditional leadership of Wassa Fiase Traditional Area, the loca chiefs had formally engaged AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in Tarkwa through written communication, seeking approval to commence a cooperative mining project aimed at empowering local youth and boosting economic activity in the area.
The proposal was also reportedly submitted to the government through the Minister of Lands and Natural, Honourable Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah Emmanuel, who gave the green light for the initiative to proceed.
The plan, which has already attracted attention from regional authorities, gained further momentum when tthe Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson visited the proposed mining site to assess its viability.
Tradtional community leaders say all key stakeholders had aligned behind the project, creating optimism among residents.
However, the situation has taken a contentious turn.
Nananom alleged that the MCE, together with the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Danladi Salifuis attempting to take control of the mining project just as preparations to begin operations were nearing completion.
Traditional leaders argued that the move undermines their authority and threatens the original objective of the initiative, which they say is to create employment opportunities for local youth rather than serve political interests.
“This project was carefully planned and approved through the right channels,” a source close to the traditional council stated. “It is meant to benefit the people, especially the youth. Any attempt by the MCE and NDC Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency Chairman to hijack the project defeats that purpose.”
The unfolding dispute has sparked concern among residents, with many calling for dialogue and transparency to prevent escalation. Observers warn that if not properly managed, the standoff could delay the project and deepen divisions within the community.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are urging all parties to prioritize the interests of Tarkwa’s people and ensure that any mining activity is conducted responsibly, inclusively, and in accordance with agreed frameworks.
Tarkwa-Nsuaem MCE Denies Allegations
Mr Cobbinah, has firmly denied viral media reports alleging rising tensions between the Assembly and traditional leaders of the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area over the proposed cooperative community mining programme.
According to the MCE, no conflict has erupted between the Assembly and local traditional leaders regarding the cooperative mining programme.
“There is no problem between the Assembly and the traditional authorities as reported in the media. We have a good working relationship with all traditional leaders of the Wassa Fiase Traditional Area,” he stated.
He further revealed that on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the Gyaasehene of the Apinto Divisional Stool, Nana Dr. Adarkwa Bediako III, together with other traditional office holders, visited his office to discuss various community concerns.
Mr. Cobbinah also dismissed allegations that he or the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Danladi Salifu, had hijacked the cooperative mining initiative from traditional authorities.
