Broadcast Journalist Omanhene Kwabena Asante has raised concerns over the worsening illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the Eastern Region, particularly in Akim Oda, questioning the government’s efforts to address the problem despite its promises to end the practice.
Speaking on M’ahiasem on Asempa FM, Omanhene said the continued destruction caused by illegal mining raises serious concerns about the future of communities and the country as a whole.
“Galamsey has worsened in the Eastern Region, particularly in Akim Oda,” he stated.
He questioned what concrete measures the government was taking to tackle the situation, particularly after making commitments to end illegal mining.
“What is the government doing to address the issue, especially after promising to end galamsey?” he asked.
According to Omanhene, one of the major obstacles to effectively addressing the problem is the politicisation of the fight against illegal mining.
“They have politicised the fight, making the fight difficult,” he said.
He warned that continued political considerations could undermine efforts to protect the country’s natural resources and address the environmental consequences of illegal mining.
Omanhene also questioned the long-term value of accumulating wealth at the expense of the environment and the resources needed by future generations.
“Where is the future if they keep on accumulating wealth?” he asked.
He therefore called for a more serious and less politically driven approach to the fight against galamsey, warning that failure to act decisively could leave future generations to bear the consequences of today’s environmental destruction.
