The Omanhene of the Lower Axim and Nsein Traditional Area, Awulae Agyafie Kwame, has launched a new front in the fight against illegal mining with the establishment of an anti-galamsey non-governmental organisation aimed at exposing the financiers behind the destructive activity.
The initiative, dubbed Positive Action for Environmental Protection, is intended to complement ongoing government efforts, as concerns continue to grow over the worsening destruction of farmlands and water bodies across the Western region.
Illegal mining remains widespread in the Nzema East municipality, which has more than 120 communities, many of which are experiencing intensified galamsey activities. Despite several enforcement swoops by security agencies, the practice persists, raising alarm about its long-term environmental, economic, and public health implications.
Speaking on the menace, Awulae Agyafie Kwame expressed deep concern about what he described as the escalating and evolving nature of illegal mining, revealing that operators are now targeting critical state infrastructure.
“Illegal mining has moved beyond farmlands and rivers. These operators are now encroaching on vital state infrastructure, and if this trend is not checked immediately, it could have serious national consequences,” the Paramount Chief warned.
According to the traditional ruler, the situation demands a more coordinated and intelligence-driven approach, particularly one that targets the financial backers who sustain illegal mining operations.
It is against this backdrop that he has established Positive Action for Environmental Protection, responding to growing calls for traditional authorities to take a more active and visible role in the fight against galamsey.
The NGO is expected to bring together traditional leaders, security agencies, legal practitioners, and community members to work collaboratively to track, identify, and publicly expose the major financiers believed to be fueling illegal mining across the Western Region.
“If we truly want to end galamsey, we must go beyond arresting operators in the pits and focus on those who finance and protect them,”
” These financiers we know them when the NPP is power they are part of them like wise the NDC and it’s is time we name and shame them”Awulae Agyafie Kwame added.
He, however, supported government’s decision not to declare a state of emergency on illegal mining, warning that such a measure could come with unintended consequences.
He urged all stakeholders in the fight to intensify their efforts to end the menace.
The initiative has already received commendation from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Bush, who louded the initiative
as it falls in line with call for Traditional leaders to go fight illegal mining, he pledged government support for the NGO’s activities.
“This initiative aligns with government’s commitment to ending illegal mining, and we are ready to support efforts that strengthen collaboration and accountability,” the Minister stated.
The launch of Positive Action for Environmental Protection is expected to deepen community involvement and strengthen the broader national campaign against illegal mining.
