Ahanta west: Mr Ebenezer Aidoo, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ahanta West, has called for collective action to tackle the menace of illegal mining in the area. Mr Aidoo emphasised the severe impact of illegal mining on the environment, local communities’ wellbeing and called on individuals within the community to be more responsive towards the environment.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Aidoo expressed concern over the detrimental effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s water bodies and lands, which are crucial for drinking water, recreation, food security, and energy generation. He highlighted the alarming consequences of these activities, such as the increasing number of defective newborns and the contamination of local produce, including cocoyam leaves (Kontomire), due to harmful chemical disposals.
The MCE stressed the extensive repercussions of galamsey, urging a unified effort to combat the issue. He stated, “The ripple effect of galamsey is enormous. We must all come together to fight thi
s devastating calamity.”
In a decisive move, Mr Aidoo, alongside the National Security and the Formed Police Unit (FPU) of the Ghana Police Service, led an operation to crack down on illegal mining activities within the municipality. The joint task force successfully ventured into the Cape Three Points Forest, resulting in the arrest of seven individuals and the destruction of more than ten ‘Chanfang’ machines, also known as ‘one leg’.
Mr Aidoo reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the environment and upholding the laws, underscoring the Assembly’s dedication to long-term environmental sustainability and community protection.