The President of the National House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Anhwiaso Traditional Area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has commended Asante Gold Corporation for making notable progress on the resettlement of the Bibiani Old Town and Zongo communities.
He described the initiative as a significant step toward improving the living conditions of residents affected by mining operations.
The commendation came during a ceremony to officially hand over a newly constructed school complex by Asante Gold Bibiani Limited to the Ghana Education Service as part of the company’s resettlement programme for the two communities.
The new educational facility, located at the resettlement site, includes a kindergarten, primary school and junior high school, as well as seven accommodation units for teachers. The housing includes a two-bedroom apartment designated for the headmaster.
The school is expected to begin operations at the start of the next academic term, replacing the current facility serving pupils in Old Town.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II said the project marks a turning point for Bibiani, noting that previous operators of the mine had made similar commitments but were unable to deliver on them.
He praised Asante Gold for advancing the resettlement process and urged the company to maintain momentum until the full relocation project is completed.
The chief also stressed the urgency of completing the resettlement, pointing out that blasting activities near the mine continue to affect the daily lives of residents in Bibiani Old Town and Zongo.
President and Chief Executive Officer of Asante Gold Corporation, Dave Anthony, said the handover of the school demonstrates the company’s commitment to fulfilling its promises to the affected communities.
He acknowledged that the project had faced delays and operational challenges but noted that work is now progressing steadily.
According to him, the company aims to complete the first 100 housing units by June 2026 to facilitate the relocation of residents from the two communities, which are currently situated too close to active mining operations.
Mr Anthony said the resettlement programme is designed not only to relocate residents but also to provide a safer and improved living environment with better social infrastructure for future generations.
General Manager of Asante Gold Bibiani Limited, Samuel Kwesi Takyi, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who have contributed to the progress of the project.
He particularly thanked residents of Old Town and Zongo for their patience and understanding during the delays experienced in the course of the project.
He also urged the Ghana Education Service to ensure the proper management and maintenance of the new school and staff accommodation to enable the facility to serve the communities effectively for years to come.
Representatives of Bibiani Old Town and Zongo welcomed the handover of the school, describing it as a positive sign that the broader resettlement programme is advancing.
With the first batch of housing units expected to be delivered in June 2026, community members expressed optimism that the long-awaited relocation will soon be completed, allowing families to move into safer homes and begin a new chapter in improved living conditions.
