- Akyem Asuom youth shut down illegal mining sites.
- Mining activities harm environment and livelihoods.
- Youth accuse companies of illegal operations and bribery.
- Krontihene supports youth and calls for government action.
The youth of Akyem Asuom in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region have taken bold action against illegal mining sites in their community.
They forcefully shut down several sites, citing severe pollution of water bodies, destruction of crops, and infertility of farmland as reasons.
The youth had repeatedly warned the illegal miners, known as galamseyers, to cease operations, but their warnings fell on deaf ears.
According to Kwesi Sarpong, a youth spokesperson, the mining companies are operating under mere prospecting licenses, which do not permit mining.
Despite this, they have continued their destructive activities, allegedly with the protection of certain traditional leaders who are accepting bribes.
Sarpong demanded immediate government action to halt the illegal mining operations, warning that the youth will take matters into their own hands if necessary.
The Kade Municipality is predominantly a farming community, and the illegal mining activities threaten their livelihoods.
Nana Boadi Amponim Abodade III, the Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, expressed support for the youth’s actions, confirming the significant harm caused by the illegal mining.
He admitted that his efforts to stop the activities since his installation as Krontihene have failed.
The youth’s actions serve as a wake-up call to the government to take decisive action against illegal mining and protect the environment and livelihoods of the people.
