Thousands of Jobs at Risk: Sokoban Wood Village workers face uncertainty amid land dispute

Workers at Sokoban Wood Village are raising alarm as a land dispute threatens their livelihoods.

The 14.52 acres of land, generously gifted to them by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is now being claimed by developers, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

The workers have urgently appealed to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to intervene in the ongoing dispute, which jeopardizes the village's future.

During a press conference on 15 October 2024, association leaders outlined the conflict surrounding the land, which had been allocated to meet the growing demands of artisans in the area. Originally intended for expanding workspace and infrastructure, the land’s unlawful claim has sparked frustration among the community.

Association Secretary, Mr. Akwasi Amponsah Nyamekye, expressed deep concern, placing trust in Otumfuo’s leadership to restore peace and protect the artisans' development efforts. "This land was given to us by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to support artisans, and we cannot stand by while it is taken unlawfully."

The association is urging Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to use his influence to restore order and safeguard the land. They are also calling on the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and other relevant stakeholders to take decisive action in resolving the dispute.

The current conflict highlights the urgent need for swift intervention to preserve the village’s progress and secure the well-being of its artisans. The workers continue to plead with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to protect their interests and prevent the loss of this vital resource.

The disputed land is critical to Sokoban Wood Village’s operations, and its loss could have devastating consequences for the community. As a key hub for wood processing in Ghana, the village plays a significant role in contributing to the country’s economy.