Kontinhene of Asuom, Nana Boadi Ampomenim Abodade III, has called on President Akufo-Addo to take immediate and decisive action against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, before his term in office ends. His plea comes as illegal mining continues to wreak havoc on local communities, particularly in Asuom, where environmental damage has reached alarming levels.
In a recent interview with Channel One News, Nana Abodade III expressed deep frustration and disappointment over the lack of progress in curbing illegal mining activities in his community. He highlighted the blatant disregard for regulations, with individuals either misusing their prospecting licenses or mining without proper contracts. According to him, these actions are causing significant destruction to the environment, with little to no accountability for those responsible.
The Kontinhene singled out AC Zenon, a mining company allegedly linked to Amina Tahiru and Abu Jinapor, for its refusal to comply with the community’s demands to cease operations and reclaim damaged lands. Despite pressure from the local youth, who have called on all mining companies in the area to stop work and restore the environment, Nana Abodade III noted that Amina Tahiru’s company has continued its activities, even employing military personnel to protect their site while they mine.
“People with prospecting licenses are using them to destroy lands, while others without proper contracts are also operating freely, causing more harm,” Nana Abodade III said. He expressed his concern over the lack of enforcement and regulation in the mining sector, which has allowed companies like AC Zenon to continue their operations unchecked. “It’s a huge battle for this country because AC Zenon, which is Amina Tahiru’s company, is still operating. I’m not afraid to mention that it is alleged she is related to Abu Jinapor, which may explain why she is able to get a concession so easily.”
He emphasized that President Akufo-Addo, who has made a commitment to tackle illegal mining, has a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by addressing this issue head-on. Nana Abodade III reminded the President of his pledge to put his presidency on the line to fight galamsey, urging him to take concrete steps within the next two months to bring about meaningful change.
“Mr. President, you are our uncle and brother. We barely have a few months left in your term, but I believe you can still make a difference,” the Kontinhene stated. “You pledged to put your presidency on the line to fight galamsey. Your legacy will be measured by that pledge, and posterity will not forgive you if you do not act now. We are pleading with you.”
He went on to suggest that the President convene a meeting to re-evaluate the mining sector and implement sustainable solutions. He believes that by banning galamsey once again, as was done in the past, and bringing stakeholders together to create a better regulatory framework, Ghana can see positive results in a short period of time.
“When galamsey was banned before, we saw positive results within just a few weeks. The land started recovering, and we had hope that things would improve,” Nana Abodade III said. “We need to go back to the drawing board, get the right people involved, and make sure that the sector is reformed in a way that benefits the country in the long term.”
Nana Abodade III’s appeal to President Akufo-Addo reflects the growing concern among many Ghanaians about the continued environmental degradation caused by illegal mining. The destructive effects of galamsey have been widely documented, with rivers and farmlands being polluted and local ecosystems being devastated. For communities like Asuom, where agriculture is a major source of livelihood, the impact of illegal mining is particularly severe.
The Kontinhene’s call for action comes at a critical time, as President Akufo-Addo’s administration nears the end of its term. With only a few months remaining, the pressure is mounting for the government to take meaningful steps to address the galamsey crisis and restore confidence in the country’s environmental and mining policies.
As Nana Abodade III pointed out, the President has the power to initiate significant change in the sector before leaving office. By enforcing stricter regulations, holding companies accountable, and prioritizing environmental restoration, the government can make a lasting impact on the fight against illegal mining.
The Asuom community, along with many others across the country, is counting on the government to fulfill its promise to protect the environment and ensure that future generations can thrive in a healthy and sustainable Ghana. Nana Abodade III’s plea to President Akufo-Addo serves as a reminder that the fight against illegal mining is far from over, and decisive action is needed now more than ever.
In conclusion, the Kontinhene’s appeal highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for strong leadership to tackle the galamsey crisis. With the clock ticking on the current administration, the time for action is now. Nana Abodade III and the people of Asuom are hopeful that President Akufo-Addo will rise to the occasion and take the necessary steps to bring about lasting reform in the mining sector.
