The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has raised concerns over the invasion of his mining concession at Akropong by illegal miners, causing extensive damage.
Expressing his frustration, he revealed that the site, which he had planned to lease for regulated mining, has been taken over without his knowledge.
“The site that was given to me has been invaded by illegal miners. Meanwhile, I had plans of giving it out for proper mining. We must find a way to solve this crisis,” he stated.
Despite the government’s continued efforts to clamp down on illegal mining, the practice remains widespread, the Asantehene lamented. Speaking during a meeting with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, he emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to address the situation.
He advocated for a multi-pronged approach, including deploying security personnel to safeguard mining concessions, formalizing small-scale mining operations, and creating alternative livelihoods for illegal miners.
“These young people involved in galamsey need jobs. We must support them so they don’t return to these sites,” he urged.
In response, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, assured that new strategies are being implemented to tackle illegal mining.
“We have laid out a plan to deal with these issues. We recently set up a national 18-member committee, and we are also re-categorizing mining operations to help address illegal mining,” he stated.
The government remains committed to introducing innovative reforms in the mining sector to curb the menace and promote sustainable mining practices.
SOURCE: Nana Boakye Yiadom
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