- Residents protest against nomadic herdsmen in Asubuasu
- Herdsmen accused of destroying farmlands, polluting water source
- Protesters demand release of arrested colleagues, end to herdsmen's activities
Residents of Asubuasu, a community in the Sekyere Central District of the Ashanti Region, have taken to the streets to protest against the activities of nomadic herdsmen, accusing them of destroying farmlands and causing environmental pollution.
The protests, led primarily by farmers, come after years of hardship attributed to the presence of the herders, who the residents claim have taken over their lands and water sources. The farmers say the cattle belonging to the herdsmen have polluted the area’s only water source, forcing them to purify it with chemicals, including alum, before it can be used for daily activities.
Clad in red headbands and armbands, the aggrieved residents marched through the streets of the community, holding placards that highlighted their frustrations over the destruction of their farmlands.
Asubuasu, known for its agricultural contributions as one of Sekyere Central’s food baskets, produces vital crops such as cassava and plantains. However, local farmers warn that their livelihoods are now under severe threat.
“The nomadic herdsmen have taken over our farms and community. When they see you, they signal their animals to attack. They only call them off when they realize you are near death,” said one resident, reflecting the fear and anger felt by many in the area.
Another farmer shared their own distressing experience: “Yesterday, I went to the farm to fetch firewood, but the herders attacked me. I injured my foot on a nail while trying to escape.”
The herders’ presence has also caused significant anxiety for the local children, with many now too fearful to attend school. “The kids are too scared to go to school. We now have to load them onto motorcycles to get them there,” a protester lamented.
In addition to the fear caused by the herders, the community’s only stream has been severely polluted, as the herders’ cattle drink from it. “We rely on alum to purify the dirty water. My children are afraid to go to the farm because of the herdsmen,” said another resident.
The situation escalated further when three residents were reportedly arrested by police for allegedly killing cattle that had encroached on their farms. The protesters are now demanding the release of those detained and an end to the activities of the herdsmen.
“On Saturday, we heard that three of our people had been arrested. The local authorities are aware of what’s happening, so why are they arresting innocent people?” questioned George Dapaah, the leader of the farmers.
The residents are calling on authorities to intervene urgently to prevent further escalation of tensions in the community.
