The Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, has issued a firm directive that illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, will not be tolerated in the region under any circumstances. The minister emphasized that the negative impacts of illegal mining far outweigh any short-term financial gains, urging those involved to cease their operations immediately or face the full force of the law.
Speaking to the media, the minister highlighted the grave consequences illegal mining has inflicted on the environment and the socio-economic fabric of the region. “Bono East cannot entertain illegal miners for any reason,” the minister asserted. “The environment, our rivers, agricultural lands, and the health of our people are suffering greatly due to these unlawful activities.”
The minister acknowledged that while some individuals engage in illegal mining hoping to earn quick profits, the long-term damage caused far surpasses such gains. Key environmental concerns raised include the destruction of farmlands, especially cocoa plantations, contamination of water bodies due to chemical pollutants, and the creation of dangerous, abandoned mining pits that pose risks to human life.
“Any short-term profit derived from illegal mining is nullified by the extensive damage these activities wreak on our land and communities,” the minister noted. This sentiment resonates deeply with local farmers whose livelihoods depend heavily on the region’s fertile land and water resources. Many have reported declining crop yields and fears over water safety linked directly to the irresponsible mining practices.
In addition to enforcement, the minister called for community support and cooperation in the fight against illegal mining. There is also an appeal for youth involved in galamsey to seek alternative and sustainable livelihood options that do not pose threats to the environment or public health.
Brono East, known as a vital food basket, has seen rising calls for protest to protect its rivers and fertile lands. Residents and environmental advocates emphasize the urgent need to safeguard these natural resources, which are crucial for sustaining national food production and local livelihoods.
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