Twabidi Beposo residents oppose galamsey; call on authorities to deal with the canker

Residents and farmers of Twabidi Beposo in the Ahafo Ano North municipality of the Ashanti region have raised concerns over illegal mining activities, which they say are endangering their livelihoods.

On Wednesday, May 16, 2024, the farmers and residents took to the streets to express their opposition to galamsey in the area.

Dressed in red and black, they protested against the illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in their community, led by the unit committee chairman, Mr. Opoku John.

They raised the issue of the sudden encroachment of lands by illegal miners, stressing that the situation poses an imminent threat to their cocoa farms, water sources, and livelihoods.

The residents believe that some chiefs are collaborating with illegal miners for their selfish interests, allowing the activities to continue in the area.

The community was taken by surprise when heavy machinery appeared in their town without prior notification or consultation.

They emphasized the necessity of protecting their land and resources for future generations and urged authorities, particularly Otumfour Osei Tutu II, the Asante Kingdom’s overlord, to act quickly to prevent impending environmental and social disasters.

The area’s Assemblyman, Augustine Fosu, who also attended the protest, expressed his dismay at the covert operations of those behind the galamsey.

He criticized the lack of proper licensing and transparency, noting that no authorization had been sought from the local assembly before the machinery's arrival.

Fosu stated that the government of Ghana, led by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, opposes illegal mining and will not tolerate land destruction and social vices such as rape and teenage pregnancies.

The assembly member emphasized the community's stance against galamsey, highlighting its negative social impacts and urging the government to swiftly enforce regulations to protect the community's resources and well-being.