The Omanhene of the Gomoa Assin Traditional Council, Obrifo Ahunako Ahor Ankobea II, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to adopt tougher measures, including a “shoot-on-sight” directive, against illegal miners who refuse to stop their activities.
The traditional leader said illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, continues to pose a serious threat to Ghana’s water bodies, forests and other natural resources despite several interventions to curb the menace.
Obrifo Ahunako Ahor Ankobea II described illegal miners who persist in the activity as enemies of the state, accusing them of destroying the country’s natural resources for personal gain.
He urged President Mahama to intensify the fight against illegal mining and take decisive action to protect the country’s water bodies and other vital resources.
The Omanhene also condemned recent attacks on military personnel deployed to combat illegal mining, describing such incidents as unacceptable.
He made the call at the launch of activities to mark his 25th anniversary on the throne.
The anniversary celebrations form part of his vision to construct an ultra-modern palace that will serve as a befitting traditional seat for the people of the Gomoa Assin Traditional Council.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, has raised concerns about growing indiscipline in schools, communities and other institutions across the country.
Speaking on his behalf, the Central Regional Director of Education, Professor Juliet Dufie Otami, called on traditional authorities to support efforts to address indiscipline and substance abuse among schoolchildren.
She also urged parents, teachers and community leaders to work together to instil discipline, responsibility and positive values in young people.
The Gyaasehene of Gomoa Wassa, Nana Kwesi Essel Okyeahene, also appealed to the government and the Ghana Education Service to improve infrastructure and the learning environment in public schools.
He said making public schools more attractive and providing the necessary facilities would improve teaching and learning while encouraging more parents to enrol their children in government schools.
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