Akyem Kotoku Krontihene, Obrempong Gyamfi Saforo Kyere, has raised concerns over the central government’s takeover of lands traditionally under the authority of chiefs, saying this has worsened illegal mining activities in the region.
Speaking during a galamsey dialogue at Akyem Oda lorry station when the Dwaso Nsem team visited, he explained that historically, chiefs were responsible for identifying which lands were suitable for mining and which were reserved for other purposes.
“First, these lands belonged to the chiefs. We know which lands are good, which are reserved, and what it takes to manage them. But now, the government has taken all our powers and centralised licensing in Accra,” he said.
He noted that some miners even arrive claiming to have government-issued licenses, often mining on lands where chiefs still perform traditional rituals.
“For example, in the Abrem area, there’s a forest where the chiefs conduct their amamere. When the NPP was about to leave power, they gave concessions to people to mine there. When the Kotoku chief complained, he was blamed. The government has taken over our lands,” he added.
Obrempong Gyamfi Saforo who is also a prominent traditional leader within the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, stressed that the government does not consult local authorities before granting mining licenses.
“They don’t even talk to us to seek our consent, even though we are supposed to oversee the lands. The government must know they are responsible for this illegal mining,” he said.
He, however, noted some progress in Oda, saying illegal mining has reduced due to enforcement efforts in areas such as the GCB concession in Akwatia.
“Oda galamsey has reduced because arrests have been made. If someone says there was no illegal mining, they are lying. People are mining, but legally now,” he stated.
The Krontihene also stressed the environmental toll of galamsey, pointing out its destructive impact on water bodies and forest reserves across the country.
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