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The Kontinhene of Asuom, Nana Boadi Ampomenim Abodade III, has urged President Akufo-Addo to take strong measures against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, and make necessary reforms before the end of his term. In an interview with Channel One News, Nana Abodade III expressed deep concern over the damage illegal mining is causing to the environment in Asuom and the broader community.
He highlighted the irresponsible actions of individuals in the mining sector, including those misusing prospecting licenses and those operating without proper contracts. “People that have prospecting licenses are using them, and people without contracts for concessions are just using paper and by carelessly destroying wherever they go,” he stated.
One company Nana Abodade III specifically mentioned was AC Zenon, allegedly connected to Amina Tahiru and Abu Jinapor, which has refused to heed the community’s demand to halt its operations and restore damaged lands. He explained, “The youth of Asuom have told all of them to stop work, go back, and reclaim all the destruction they’ve caused. Most obliged, but Madam Amina Tahiru is saying she won’t. As a matter of fact, she has military men at her site today, protecting it while they mine.”
Nana Abodade III called on President Akufo-Addo to fulfill his promise of tackling galamsey. He reminded the president of his previous commitment to fighting illegal mining and urged him to take immediate action within the next two months. “Mr. President, you’re our uncle and brother. We barely have months to go, but I believe you can change things around. You pledged your presidency on the line for galamsey, and your legacy will be measured by that pledge. Posterity will not forgive you if you don’t act now,” he pleaded.
The Kontinhene suggested that a ban on illegal mining, combined with a re-evaluation of the sector, could lead to meaningful improvements. “Within two months, you can cause a change because when it was banned, within a few weeks we saw some positive results. Ban it. Get people together. Let’s go back to the drawing board and do things right,” he concluded.
Nana Abodade III believes that addressing this issue is crucial for the well-being of the community and hopes the president will take decisive action to preserve his legacy.
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