National Security has imposed an immediate ban on all mining activities in Nweneso Number 1&2, a community within the Atwima Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti Region. This decisive action aims to halt severe environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, known locally as 'galamsey'. The move follows repeated instances where illegal miners destroyed land already reclaimed under a government contract.
The government awarded a contract valued at approximately GHS 1.2 million for the reclamation of 100 acres of degraded agricultural land in Nweneso. Danmark Prime Company Limited, the firm undertaking this project, has so far successfully reclaimed 10 acres. However, illegal miners invaded these restored portions, reversing the environmental progress and jeopardising agricultural livelihoods. The ban targets these persistent intrusions to safeguard the public investment and restoration efforts.
This intervention highlights Ghana's ongoing struggle with illegal mining, which continues to devastate vast tracts of land and water bodies. The economic cost of galamsey includes lost agricultural productivity, environmental clean-up expenses, and health impacts. Previous government efforts, such as 'Operation Vanguard', aimed to curb illegal mining but often faced challenges with sustained enforcement. This recent ban in Nweneso reflects a renewed emphasis on protecting specific key agricultural areas from illegal mining activities.
The Ashanti Regional Deputy Security Coordinator, Alhaji Nje, confirmed the ban during a site visit by a joint security team. He stated that the ban would remain in effect for at least two weeks. Alhaji Nje warned that law enforcement officials would strictly prosecute anyone found engaged in mining activities during this period. He emphasised that any seized excavators or mining equipment would face permanent confiscation. “This is agricultural land, but extensive destruction by illegal mining has put lives and livelihoods at risk,” he stated, underscoring the ban’s necessity.
The Operations Manager of Danmark Prime Company Limited, Robert Dambo, highlighted the challenges faced by reclamation efforts. Mr. Dambo explained that illegal miners routinely destroy restored areas, undermining the company's work. He stressed the critical need for continuous security support to ensure the successful completion of the reclamation project. The company has reclaimed 10 acres since the contract started about a year ago and aims to restore more land by year-end.
The ban's implications are significant for both environmental recovery and regional security. This action signals a more aggressive stance against illegal mining, potentially deterring future encroachment. Decision-makers and local communities will closely monitor the effectiveness of this two-week ban and its potential extension. Long-term success will depend on sustained security presence and community cooperation to prevent illegal mining from resurfacing. This could also influence investor confidence in other land reclamation projects across Ghana.