Dormaahene Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu, who has been vocal in his criticism of illegal mining activities, has strongly backed this project.
He condemned these acts and made it clear that he would not stand for them in his society. The community’s resistance to unlawful mining has been greatly aided by his leadership and dedication to preserving the environment and public health.
“We did an operation; all the people here are galamseyers. What is sad is that some of them are from Bawku and faraway places. They are many. Behind us is their machines,” he said.
This development reflects a growing grassroots resistance to galamsey, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and resource management in the region.
In response to the escalating crisis of illegal mining, or “galamsey”, the Ghanaian government has established specialised task forces tasked with enforcing mining laws and conducting raids on illegal sites. These teams, consisting of military personnel and local authorities, have recently undertaken operations that led to arrests and the seizure of mining equipment in various regions, including a significant raid in the Atewa West District.
Concerns over environmental degradation, especially in areas heavily impacted by pollution, and the growing public demonstrations against it are the main reasons for the government’s increased attention on stopping illicit mining. In order to ensure sustainable practices, President Nana Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and enhancing adherence to mining laws.
