The Akyemansa District Chief Executive, Hon. Paul Asamoah Gyemah, has issued a plea for immediate government intervention to address the rampant issue of illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey,” along the banks of the Pra River. The Pra River, which flows through the Akyemansa district, has been a hotspot for these illicit activities, causing extensive damage to both the environment and local communities.
Hon. Paul Asamoah Gyemah and his dedicated galamsey taskforce recently took action against the illegal miners operating along the Pra River. In a determined effort to curb these activities, they seized and destroyed fifteen “changfan” machines that were being used by the illegal miners near the “Ensese Anglo village” within the Akyemansa district.
Speaking on the urgency of the situation, the Akyemansa District Chief Executive emphasized the critical need for government support in combating galamsey. He highlighted the severe impact of these activities on local farmlands and expressed concern about the lack of financial resources within the district to effectively address the issue.
One of the most disheartening aspects, according to Hon. Paul Asamoah Gyemah, is the involvement of foreign nationals in these destructive practices. To counteract this trend, he proposed employing the military airforce’s resources, including helicopters, to conduct aerial patrols over the river bodies. This, he believes, could discourage illegal miners from continuing their operations.
The detrimental consequences of galamsey are not only limited to the environment but also affect the livelihoods of local farmers who rely on the Pra River for irrigation. Some farmers shared their frustrations over the pollution caused by galamsey, which has a direct negative impact on their crops and quality of life.
In light of the situation, the Akyemansa district calls for collaborative efforts between the local administration and the national government to enforce stricter measures against illegal mining. Urgent action is required to safeguard the environment, preserve valuable natural resources, and protect the well-being of the affected communities.
As the district awaits government response and support, it remains committed to tackling the issue head-on and ensuring a sustainable future for its residents.
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