The Paramount Chief of the Aowin Traditional Area, Nana Beyeeman Tano Kwaw Benbuin III, has called for an immediate end to illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, in the Aowin area and across the country.
According to the chief, the galamsey menace has become a major threat to human lives and the environment, and urgent steps must be taken to stop it.
The chief, during an installation of a youth chief for the Aowin Traditional Council on Sunday, October 12, 2025, emphasised that galamsey was causing more harm to society than even drug abuse.
While drug abuse affects only the individual involved, Nana Benbuin said galamsey destroys countless innocent lives through environmental pollution and long-term health hazards. He noted that chemicals like mercury and cyanide, used by illegal miners, are contaminating rivers and other water bodies, which people unknowingly use for drinking and cooking.
He stated that the widespread pollution caused by galamsey has led to numerous diseases among residents who rely on these water sources. He lamented that the destruction of natural resources is putting the health and future of the community at serious risk.
The paramount chief also expressed concern over the involvement of foreign nationals in illegal mining activities. He said it is unacceptable for people from Burkina Faso, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire to invade Ghanaian lands, pollute water bodies, and destroy farmlands in pursuit of illegal mining.
To address the issue, the traditional council, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, has formed a task force to clamp down on illegal mining activities in the area. Nana Beyeeman Tano called on fellow traditional leaders, the youth, and security agencies to unite and support the fight against galamsey.
During the same event, Nana Kwame Asare Bimpong was officially installed as the Youth Chief (Mbrantehene) of Aowin. In his remarks, he pledged to work closely with the security agencies and traditional leaders to ensure peace and security in the municipality.
He also appealed to the youth to support his leadership and work together in unity to bring development to the Aowin Municipality.
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