E/R: Akyem Anyinasin Residents Rise Against Mining — Call on Government and Traditional Authorities to Intervene

Residents of Akyem Anyinasin in the Eastern Region of Ghana have staged a massive community durbar on Saturday, November 2, 2025, to voice their strong opposition to any form of mining activity—whether legal or illegal—within their community.

The durbar, held at the town’s ceremonial grounds, drew over 500 concerned residents, all united in protest against what they described as an attempt by their traditional ruler, Osabarima Atta Appiah Korang, to permit mining operations in the area.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the convener of the protest, Mr. William Boakye, reaffirmed the residents’ collective stance against mining, citing its long-term destructive consequences. He lamented that mining—both legal and illegal—has historically led to the destruction of fertile farmlands, pollution of rivers, and loss of livelihoods in many communities across the country.

“We have made a conscious decision as a community never to allow mining in Akyem Anyinasin because we value our environment and the legacy we leave for future generations,” he emphasized.

“We are therefore appealing to all relevant stakeholders, including the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, to intervene before it is too late.”

Also addressing the gathering, the President and Founder of Save the Nation for Future Leaders, Mr. Atta Appiah Korang, who is also a twin brother to the Chief of Akyem Anyinasin, reiterated his commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring that the natural resources of the community are not destroyed for short-term gains.

He stressed that the lands and water bodies are the lifeblood of the people, serving as essential resources for survival. Allowing mining activities, he said, would spell disaster for both humans and nature.

“Anyone who turns against nature becomes an enemy of humanity and must not be entertained. The Bible teaches us to protect creation, not destroy it,” he declared.

Mr. Appiah Korang further appealed to the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, a known environmental advocate, to step in and help prevent the proposed mining operations. He warned that such activities could destroy important tributaries like River Supon, which flows into River Densu—a vital source of water for Accra and its environs.

Adding a legal perspective, Mr. Debrah Daffour, Esq., the legal lead for the group, revealed that several petitions have already been submitted to the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Awatey, and other relevant authorities. He assured residents that there are existing punitive legal frameworks against illegal mining (galamsey), and he would pursue every lawful means to defend the community’s right to a safe environment.

“As a lawyer and a native of this land, I am committed to ensuring that justice prevails and our environment is preserved,” he added.

Several residents who spoke to the media echoed their disappointment and anger over the chief’s alleged decision. They vowed to resist any attempt to start mining in the area, stressing that Akyem Anyinasin’s peace, health, and future generations must not be sacrificed for profit.

The durbar ended peacefully, with community leaders pledging to continue their advocacy through lawful and sustained public awareness campaigns.

Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare