The Gwira Youth Development Association (GYDA) has called on the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to intensify operations against mining activities within the Draw River Forest Reserve.
Citing threats to residents’ safety, farming and access to clean water, the association is demanding decisive government intervention to protect communities in the Nzema East Municipality.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Vaultz News, the Chairman of GYDA, Isaac Wandah Kwofie added that the immediate action would also prevent further destruction of the reserve. He stressed that the association wants NAIMOS to intervene directly in the situation, warning that the mining activities are putting residents at risk.
“We want government to send security personnel to these places, especially, NAIMOS. To sack all those who are working there.”
Isaac Wandah Kwofie
He expressed dissatisfaction with the “selective enforcement” arguing that some operations target individuals at the lower end of illegal mining activities while leaving others responsible for more extensive destruction untouched.
The GYDA Chairman further alleged that some individuals tasked with protecting mining equipments prevent local residents from approaching areas where the equipments have been deployed. According to him, community members have photographic evidence of the activities and have reported the developments to the association, prompting its petition to the government.
Consequently, Mr Kwofie explained that farming, which supports livelihoods in the affected communities, has become increasingly dangerous because residents fear for their safety. He urged the authorities to ensure that enforcement measures address the alleged mining operations comprehensively instead of leaving the community exposed to possible intimidation.
Beyond the security implications, the association has raised environmental concerns over the potential contamination of water sources. Mr Kwofie warned that streams draining towards the River Ankobra may carry pollutants into the water relied upon by residents, while community members have reported illnesses, including kidney problems and skin rashes.
The Chairman emphasised that the reported health problems require serious attention, stressing that efforts to protect the forest must also prioritise the health and livelihoods of surrounding communities, whose well-being is closely linked to the sustainable management of the environment.
Meanwhile, GYDA is urging the government to ensure that NAIMOS operations are consistent and effective. The association wants the authorities to prioritise community safety, environmental preservation and the consistent application of mining laws.
Gwira Youth Seeks Answers Over Betterland’s Forest Reserve Plans
The Gwira Youth Development Association (GYDA) is demanding government clarification on the proposed mining activities of Betterland Mining Company within the Draw River Forest Reserve, months after submitting a petition in June.
The association says it is yet to receive a response addressing its questions about the company’s legal authority to operate following “the revocation of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022, L.I. 2462.”
Chairman of the association, Isaac Wandah Kwofie questioned why mining activities continue in the reserve after the government revoked the instrument through the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025.
“The government must clarify whether any exemptions or existing legal arrangements permit Betterland to proceed.”
Isaac Wandah Kwofie
In its petition, GYDA asked whether Betterland Mining Company holds a valid mining lease, prospecting licence or other authorisation that permits activities within the reserve. The association also wants clarification on whether the company has completed the required environmental, technical and financial assessments to demonstrate its capacity to operate lawfully and responsibly.
The Chairman disclosed that, based on the association’s own investigations, members believe the company does not possess the appropriate licence. However, the legal status of Betterland’s proposed operations has not been independently established in the material provided, making an official response particularly important.
Furthermore, GYDA is calling for an independent and transparent investigation into reported deaths linked by community members to tensions surrounding mining activities. Its petition identifies the death of 13-year-old Pius Nkansa at Adelekezo on December 13, 2025, and the death of Angwah Mensah at Abganzie on May 24, 2026, whom the petition identifies as “a local chief’s brother.”
Mr Kwofie alleged that security personnel have been involved in fatal incidents, while expressing frustration that the circumstances surrounding Pius Nkansa’s death has not been adequately addressed. These allegations require investigation, and responsibility for the reported deaths must be determined through the appropriate legal processes.
GYDA has also questioned the influence of personal interests in decisions affecting the forest, arguing that the long-term consequences for young people and future generations must take precedence. The association maintains that most residents in the affected communities oppose mining in the reserve because of the potential damage to forests, water bodies and biodiversity.
The petition consequently calls for a clear public statement from the government on Betterland’s legal position, alongside protection for residents who raise objections to the alleged activities. GYDA is seeking accountability, community safety and assurances that the revocation of L.I. 2462 will be applied consistently.
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