The Paramount Chief of Ntotroso and President of the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, Barima Twereko Ampem III, has appealed to Newmont Gold Ghana to support government’s “Community Mining” initiative as part of efforts to curb illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the region.
He made the appeal at Ntotroso during the celebration of the Apomasu Yam Festival, held under the theme “Mining and Tradition: Building Resilient Community Through Sustainable and Responsible Mining.”
The chief explained that in a bid to end illegal mining activities in the Asutifi North District, government has decided to establish community mining operations at Kenyasi. He noted that it would be appropriate for Newmont Gold Ghana to leverage its experience and expertise in responsible mining to support the initiative and ensure its success.
According to him, illegal mining in the district — particularly in communities where Newmont operates — poses a serious threat to the company’s operations. He stressed that it would be in the company’s own interest to partner with government to make the community mining programme effective and sustainable.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, who represented President John Dramani Mahama at the event, commended the chiefs and people of Ntotroso for using the festival to uphold the country’s culture and values while promoting development, particularly in education.
He said the people of Ntotroso are fortunate to have Barima Twereko Ampem III as their chief, describing him as accountable in managing funds the community receives from Newmont Gold Ghana.
The minister encouraged the chief to continue using the festival as a platform to accelerate development in the area.
