The Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti (AGA), Samuel Boakye Pobee. has strongly dismissed public speculations suggesting that the mining giant is enjoying stable electricity at the expense of the Obuasi community amidst the ongoing power crisis.
In recent weeks, some community members have alleged that following the GRIDCo substation fire in May 2025, power from the remaining functional transformer was diverted to serve AngloGold Ashanti’s operations, while residents and surrounding communities continue to suffer frequent outages.
But responding to these claims, the MD clarified that the mine has its own dedicated transformer located at the southern part of the mining site, which powers a significant portion of its operations. He stressed that AGA is not connected to or benefiting from the transformer that serves the general Obuasi township.
“We have our own transformer at the southern part of the mine that supports most of our operations,” the MD stated.
He further emphasized that AngloGold Ashanti is not separate from the Obuasi community, noting that about 4,000 of the company’s 5,000 workers live in Obuasi and its surrounding areas.
Rebuilding Trust
The clarification comes amid growing public tension and misinformation surrounding the allocation of electricity in Obuasi. Many residents have expressed frustration over inconsistent power supply and its impact on livelihoods, with rumors spreading that the mine is enjoying uninterrupted service while homes and businesses face extended blackouts.
Samuel Pobee reiterated the company’s commitment to transparency and cooperation with stakeholders, stating that AngloGold Ashanti remains focused on supporting efforts to restore full power supply across the municipality.