E/R: Asiakwa Miners Call for Lifting of Ban, Pledge Responsible Operations
Kwame Boateng, Chairman of the Asiakwa Miners Association, has made a passionate appeal to traditional authorities and stakeholders to lift the ban on mining activities in the area. His plea, delivered during a media inspection tour on Monday, May 20, 2025, was directed at Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II, Chief of Asiakwa and Nifahene of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council; the Asiakwa Working Group; the Okyeman Environmental Protection Brigade; and the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin.
Boateng acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and traditional leaders that led to the initial ban but stated that the miners had made significant progress in restoring previously degraded lands.
“We have reclaimed about 90% of the lands that were previously destroyed by mining activities, as you the media can see for yourselves. This demonstrates our commitment to doing things right,” he said.
He further pledged that, if the ban is lifted, only licensed members of the Miners Association would be allowed to operate.
“We will not permit unauthorized miners to be part of this process. This time, the Association will enforce strict compliance to ensure responsible mining,” he affirmed.
Boateng also highlighted rising youth unemployment in Asiakwa, stressing that mining remains a vital source of livelihood for the community.
“The youth are suffering due to the lack of jobs. Mining is our mainstay, and we are ready to carry it out responsibly. If given another opportunity, we will work to prevent foreign intrusions and illegal activities.”
The ban on all mining activities in Asiakwa was instituted by Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II in March 2025, following widespread protests organized by the Asiakwa Working Group. The group raised serious concerns about unregulated mining, which they said was damaging lands, polluting water bodies, and destroying forest reserves.
In response to these concerns, the Okyeman Environmental Protection Brigade—led by Barimah Dr. Kwabena Awuah Parker I, Chief of Sokode-Juaso, and Barimah Pobi Asomanin, Chief of Kyebi Akwadum—held a series of meetings with the miners to discuss more responsible and sustainable mining practices.
George Nkansah Darkwa, Secretary to the Association, admitted that the ban served as a wake-up call for the mining community.
“The Chief’s decision to impose a ban was an eye-opener. It made us reflect on our past operations and their impact. Going forward, the Association will closely monitor all activities to ensure full compliance and environmental protection.”
He expressed appreciation to Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II and the Environmental Brigade for their leadership in guiding the community toward sustainable development.
“We are grateful to Daasebre and the Environmental Brigade for their guidance. Their efforts have instilled awareness and discipline in us. With their continued support, we believe we can achieve responsible mining that benefits both the people and the land.”
The decision now lies with traditional authorities as the community awaits a response on whether the ban will be lifted in light of the miners’ renewed commitment to responsible practices.
Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare
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