‘Illegal Miners Have Taken Over My Concession’ – Asantehene
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II raises alarm over illegal mining on his land, calls for tougher measures to protect concessions and create alternative jobs for youth
- Asantehene reveals illegal miners have taken over his concession at Akropong
- Urges government to deploy security and enforce stricter regulations
- Emphasizes providing alternative livelihoods to curb illegal mining
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has raised alarm over the unlawful invasion of his mining concession by illegal miners, causing extensive damage to the land.
Expressing his frustration, he lamented that despite government interventions to curb illegal mining (galamsey), the issue remains unresolved.
Speaking during a meeting with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources on Friday, February 14, the Asantehene stressed the urgency of implementing stronger measures to combat the menace, highlighting its devastating impact on both the environment and the economy.
He revealed that illegal miners had taken over his concession at Akropong without his knowledge, thwarting his plans for legal and responsible mining operations.
“The site that was given to me has been invaded by illegal miners. Meanwhile, I had plans to give it out for proper mining. We must find a way to solve this crisis,” he stated.
Calling for a holistic approach to tackling the crisis, the Asantehene urged the government to deploy security personnel to protect mining concessions, regulate small-scale mining, and create alternative livelihoods for those engaged in illegal mining.
“These children who are engaged in galamsey need jobs. We need to assist them so they don’t go back to the sites,” he emphasized.
