The Paramount Chief of Kwahu Traditional Area, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, has paid an unannounced visit to communities in Kwahu affected by illegal mining activities.
The visit followed a viral video alleging that Asempanaye, a cocoa farming community in the Kwahu South Municipality, had been overtaken by illegal miners.
Accompanied by some of his chiefs and adikro, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III toured the sites to assess the extent of environmental damage and to consider possible interventions.
His tour also included courtesy visits to some licensed large-scale mining companies, including Akroma Gold Mining Company, where he encouraged management to continue operating responsibly and to expand their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to benefit local communities.
Speaking to the media after the inspection, the Kwahumanhene expressed worry over the severe environmental degradation caused by galamsey. He urged government institutions and security agencies, particularly the police, to intensify efforts to protect forests and water bodies from illegal mining.
He further called on other licensed mining companies to emulate Akroma Gold by prioritizing responsible mining practices and community development.
Enoch Agblo, Community Relations Manager of Akroma Gold, thanked the traditional ruler for his visit and outlined the company’s ongoing support programs for communities. He disclosed that Akroma Gold had formally sought military assistance to secure its concessions against illegal encroachment.
