The traditional leaders of Abosso and Bompieso, communities nestled within the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality of Ghana’s Western Region, have publicly denounced the rampant illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey,” plaguing their ancestral lands. They accuse certain political figures within the constituency and region of providing cover and encouragement for these environmentally destructive activities. Their condemnation came in the form of a press release issued on August 5, 2025, clearly articulating their position against the illegal operations and the political actors allegedly supporting them.
The chiefs, speaking through the Public Relations Officer of the Abosso Royal Palace on behalf of Nana Kwasi Appiah II, the Odikro (chief) of Abosso, expressed profound concern over the environmental degradation caused by galamsey. They issued a stern warning to politicians implicated in facilitating these illegal activities, emphasizing their resolve to oppose any further encroachment upon their lands for such purposes. The statement categorically stated that they would employ all available legal means to resist any further illegal mining operations and the political machinations that enable them.
The traditional authorities, with the full backing of their communities, have actively sought government intervention. Their appeals to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources resulted in a successful raid conducted by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operation Squad (NAIMOS) in conjunction with National Security forces. The chiefs stressed that the raid was a collaborative effort undertaken with their full consent and reflects their commitment to the well-being of their people and the preservation of their environment. They underscored their support for responsible mining practices, drawing a clear distinction between legitimate operations and the destructive nature of galamsey.
The chiefs’ statement further emphasized their commitment to protecting their ancestral lands and resources. They highlighted their role as custodians of the forests and water bodies, underscoring their responsibility to defend these vital resources from exploitation. They reiterated their support for the government’s efforts to eliminate unauthorized mining and promote environmentally sound practices. Their appeal to the government extends beyond the immediate raids to a broader call for the establishment of a responsible mining framework that respects both the environment and the rule of law.
The full press release, reproduced in the original content, details the chiefs’ endorsement of the raids, commends the involved ministries, and reiterates their commitment to responsible mining. It further accuses certain political actors of supporting the illegal miners, warning them against further involvement and emphasizing the chiefs’ resolve to protect their lands. The statement unequivocally supports the security agencies involved in the raids and calls for continued action against unauthorized mining.
This situation highlights the ongoing struggle against illegal mining in Ghana and the complex interplay between traditional authorities, government agencies, and political influences. The chiefs’ strong stance, coupled with their proactive engagement with the government, demonstrates their commitment to protecting their environment and the well-being of their communities. Their call for responsible mining reflects a broader need for sustainable resource management practices that balance economic development with environmental protection. The involvement of national security forces underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s determination to address the issue of illegal mining. The chiefs’ public condemnation of alleged political involvement further adds another layer to the complexity of the fight against galamsey.
