Binsere, a community in Obuasi East, is struggling with serious challenges following the establishment of a tailings dam by AngloGold Ashanti. Residents have raised concerns about health risks, environmental damage, and loss of livestock.
Health Risks and Pollution Concerns
A team from PN Media visited Binsere to hear directly from residents. Many expressed fears about how the tailings dam is affecting their health.
One resident stated that dust pollution and chemicals from the dam have caused respiratory issues, while noise from operations disturbs their daily lives. He added that they have no one to fight for them and pleaded with the government to intervene.
A woman in the community reported suffering from constant headaches, respiratory infections, eye diseases, and stomach pains. She believes these illnesses began after the dam was built, as she had no symptoms before. Despite repeated complaints to local leaders, nothing has been done.
Environmental and Livelihood Impact
Residents claim that the community’s water sources have been polluted, making clean water scarce. Additionally, livestock deaths have increased, as animals drinking from nearby water bodies have fallen sick and died.
One farmer reported that he has lost around 35 goats since the dam was constructed. Another woman stated that her goat population dropped from 25 to just 7. She believes human deaths have not occurred due to stronger immune systems compared to animals.
AngloGold Ashanti’s Response
PN Media also spoke with AngloGold Ashanti’s management. They explained that they acquired the land for the establishment of the Binsere Tailings Dam in 2009, when there were no houses nearby. They claim that issues began as the community expanded closer to the dam.
The company assured that they are working with local leaders to find solutions to the ongoing challenges.
What’s Next?
The people of Binsere are demanding relocation or stronger environmental protection measures. PN Media will continue to follow this story and provide updates.