The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, and the Okuapemhene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, have established a special task force to combat illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, in the Eastern Region.
As part of this initiative, illegal miners have been warned to halt operations immediately to prevent further environmental destruction.
Kyebi Akwadumhene, Barima Pobi Asomaning, confirmed this in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, highlighting the devastating impact of galamsey on water bodies and farmlands.
He revealed that the task force, named Operation Restore The Birim, has been tasked with protecting water bodies and preventing illegal miners from further degrading mining sites.
“The Okyenhene has ordered the immediate closure of all galamsey pits in the area and has charged landowners to convert at least two to three acres of land into palm plantations,” he stated.
To support the initiative, the Okyenhene has pledged GH₵20,000 to assist affected landowners in transitioning to sustainable farming.
Barima Pobi warned that anyone who defies the directive will face the full force of the law, stressing that the era of unchecked environmental destruction is over.
He also called for collective action to preserve the Birim River and other critical water sources, reaffirming the Okyenhene’s commitment to environmental conservation for future generations.
Additionally, he appealed to President John Mahama and relevant institutions, including the Lands Commission, to support the initiative to ensure its success and sustainability.
ALSO READ: