The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Obuasi, Hon. Faustilove Appiah Kannin in a decisive strategy to combat the growing threat of illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey” in the municipality, has led a special taskforce to inspect heavily affected areas and invoke immediate action.
The inspection team visited three communities – Adaase, Nyamebekyere, and Nhyirsyeso – where the Municipal Chief Executive was visibly shocked by the level of environmental destruction caused by the illegal miners.
At Adaase, Hon. Faustilove witnessed how the illegal miners had diverted the town’s main road, polluted a major stream, and destroyed over three-square kilometres of once-productive farmland. “Numerous uncovered pits now litter the landscape, posing serious dangers to the residents,” the Assembly revealed.
Illegal Mine ravages
Deeply concerned by what she saw, the visibly enraged MCE confronted some of the illegal miners at the Adaase site, “ordering them to immediately halt their operations and demanding information on the individuals behind the illegal activity”.
The situation in Nyamebekyere and Nhyirsyeso was not exceptional, as widespread land degradation and water pollution were observed.
Fight Against Galamsey
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly just like several other Assemblies in the Ahanti Region has been heavily exposed to the activities of galamsey thereby compelling the Municipal to intensify the fight against the menace for some time now, considering the devastating impact it has on the local environment, livelihoods, and overall development of the area.
Under the leadership of Hon. Faustilove, the municipality has employed several efforts to eradicate the menace, including a multi-pronged approach that involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Ghana Police Service and the Obuasi Municipal Security Council (MUSEC).
“Hon. Faustilove announced that she will convene an emergency Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) meeting to intensify enforcement, ensure the arrest of culprits, and initiate a comprehensive land reclamation exercise.”
Obuasi Municipal Assembly
This decisive action underscores the municipality’s commitment to addressing the illegal mining crisis and restoring the affected areas to their former state.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly recognizes that the fight against galamsey requires a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders.
By working closely with the Ghana Police Service and other relevant agencies, the municipality aims to strengthen its enforcement capabilities, gather intelligence, and identify the key players behind the illegal mining activities.
Environmental Restoration
In addition to enforcement measures, the Obuasi Municipal Assembly is also focused on addressing the environmental damage caused by the illegal mining activities.
The planned land reclamation exercise will be a crucial step in restoring the affected areas, ensuring the safety of residents, and paving the way for the rehabilitation and sustainable use of the land.
The impact of illegal mining in Obuasi extends beyond the environmental degradation; it also threatens the livelihoods of local communities and hinders the overall development of the municipality.
By eradicating the galamsey menace, the Municipal aims to protect the economic and social well-being of its residents, empowering them to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities and contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of the region.
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly recognizes that the fight against illegal mining cannot be won without the active participation and support of the local community.
Through residents, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders’ engagement, the municipality aims to raise awareness, gather intelligence, and foster a sense of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment and natural resources.
Legal and Policy Frameworks
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly’s efforts to combat illegal mining are further strengthened by the legal and policy frameworks in place at the national level.
The municipality is working closely with the relevant government agencies to ensure that the enforcement of existing laws and regulations is carried out effectively, sending a clear message that the galamsey menace will not be countenanced.
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly, under the leadership of Hon. Faustilove Appiah Kannin, is spearheading a bold and comprehensive approach to eradicate the scourge of illegal mining in the region.
By intensifying enforcement, engaging with stakeholders, and prioritizing environmental restoration, the municipality is determined to protect its natural resources, safeguard the livelihoods of its residents, and pave the way for sustainable development in Obuasi.
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