Ghanaians Can Lead Big Corporations; Asantehene Backs AngloGold Obuasi MD

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has expressed confidence in the potential and capability of Ghanaians, arguing that they have what it takes to occupy senior positions and run larger corporations and businesses in the country.

His Majesty frowns at Ghanaian businesses’ habit of contracting the services of foreigners to man their affairs. He has over the years, advocated for the utilization of natives in running critical businesses in the country.

His Majesty thus expressed joy on seeing another Ghanaian had been appointed as the Managing Director of the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine.

The new MD, Mr Samuel Boakye Pobee was introduced to him at the Manhyia Palace by the Senior Vice President of AngloGold Ashanti Africa Non-operated JVs, Mr Eric Asubonteng on August 21, 2024.

Introduction
Introducing him, Mr Asubonteng who formerly occupied the position said he will be replacing him.

“My tenure as Managing Director ended before the end of 2023 and I came to inform Otumfuo about it. I told him it would take some time to get a replacement. We came purposely today to introduce our new Managing Director, Mr Samuel Pobee for Obuasi Mine.”

In his speech, Mr Pobee ran through his credentials.

“I attended Kumasi Academy, I grew up here… and then I attended University of Mines and started work with Goldmines before I moved to Australia and worked there for 15 years. I was approached to ascend Iduapriem MD position and the grace of God has subsequently brought me to the Obuasi Mine.”

He implored His Majesty to continue with his unalloyed support to the Mine as he takes over the reins and also assured of committing himself to his counsel and directions.

“I have heard about the unalloyed support Otumfuo has been giving mine and how keen he is about it. I also realized the role he played in the resuscitating the Mine. I use this occasion to thank him because I would not have gotten this job today without that effort…I plead with Otumfuo to give me the same support he gave my brother Eric.”

Confidence
Asantehene welcomed the appointment as he appeared impressed with the rich experience the MD possesses.

“I welcome him and from his credentials, he is versed in the trade. He possesses the needed experience and expertise from the ploy in Australia. He should focus and do the work as it ought… I get displeased when I see white people brought in to steer the affairs but when natives are there, I rest assured that my own are in charge and that they are competent enough to run them.”

He noted that the mine holds a special place in his heart and that of Asanteman because its name is etched on it.

“On paper, the mine is for government but in reality, it’s a possession of Asanteman. Our name is etched on it. It can’t be changed. And so its operation is quite important to me.”

He further reiterated his call for substantial investment in the Obuasi Mine by the parent Company based in South Africa.

According to him, the fact that 40% of the entire output of the company is from Ghana, makes the Mine critical to their operation and survival and thereby his call for investment.

“The entire AngloGold Ashanti’s grounding is here. 40% of all their extractions come from here. South Africa failed to deliver as well as South America and so why not invest in the place that is cushioning your survival and give it all your attention? All the needed financial investments must be made here.”

Delegation
Among the delegation that accompanied the MD were Emmanuel Baidoo, the Senior Manager of Community Relations at AngloGold Ashanti Africa, Edward Ennin Non-Executive Director for AngloGold Ashanti Ghana and Araba Attua Afari, the Company Secretary and Lawyer.

Educational Background of Mr Pobee
Mr Pobee holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from INSEAD Business School and a post-graduate certificate in Applied Finance from Macquarie University in Australia.

He also holds a diploma in Mining Engineering from the University of Mines and Technology in Ghana and a Master’s degree in Geostatistics from the University of Adelaide in Australia.