Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company, Judith Adjobah Blay, has raised serious concerns over illegal mining activities near Akango in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region, warning that the encroachment poses a significant threat to the country’s main gas pipeline.
The pipeline, which transports lean gas from the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant to Kumasi, plays a critical role in Ghana’s power generation efforts.
Speaking to Channel One TV during a tour of the affected area on August 2, Madam Blay cautioned that any damage to the inflammable pipeline could lead to devastating consequences—not only for national energy supply but also for the safety of surrounding communities.
“This pipeline is essential for transporting gas to support electricity generation across the country. Its proximity to illegal mining sites is deeply troubling,” she said.
She assured that Ghana Gas is taking immediate steps to secure the area and prevent further encroachment.
Madam Blay also appealed to residents and local leaders to collaborate with authorities in safeguarding the infrastructure.
“This is a national asset. We must all come together to protect it,” she added.
The construction of the pipeline began in 2012 to connect Atuabo to Kumasi via Esiama and Prestea. However, the increasing spate of illegal mining activity now threatens the integrity of this crucial infrastructure.
Source: Adomonline
