The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako, has expressed concern over what he describes as the alarming rise of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in his constituency since the 2024 elections.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr. Boako said the area was not previously known for galamsey, but the situation has worsened with the influx of new miners, including some foreign nationals.
He noted that farming communities are bearing the brunt of the menace as polluted water bodies, many linked to the Tano River, are affecting both drinking water and irrigation.
Dr. Boako revealed that despite engagements with traditional leaders, the illegal activity persists, stressing that the destruction of water bodies and farmlands is becoming a major crisis for residents.
“Tano North was not traditionally a galamsey-prone area; however, since the 2024 elections, illegal mining has escalated, and it is very alarming. Chinese nationals and other new people have occupied the area. As a new Member of Parliament, I’ve tried speaking to some of the chiefs, but the situation continues.
“Recently, during my community engagements, I learned that the residents are deeply concerned about the galamsey issue. The community predominantly consists of farmers, and the water bodies in the area are crucial not just for drinking, but also for farming. This situation is really disturbing them.
“Schools in the area are expressing similar concerns. Most of the rivers are connected to the Tano River, which the people rely on for their daily needs. Despite attempts to address illegal mining in the past, it was only after the 2024 elections that the issue intensified significantly. This has become a major problem in the area,” he said.
Source: Farida Seidu| Adomonline
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