The Chief of Akyem Dwenease, Barimah Bɛyɛɛ-Man Gyakyi-Sei II, has voiced serious concerns about the developmental challenges faced by the Dwenease community in the Eastern Region.
During the “Ohum Kɛseɛ Festival,” he highlighted pressing issues such as inadequate educational infrastructure, lack of water, and the destructive impact of illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
Barimah Gyakyi-Sei II called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to deploy a security task force to combat the rampant galamsey operations devastating the area.
Additionally, he cautioned the youth against being drawn into criminal activities, especially with the upcoming December elections, emphasizing the need for peace and order.
The Queen Mother of Akyem Dwenease, Nana Appeaa Sarpong Kumankoma I, expressed her concern over the alarming trend of school children engaging in galamsey instead of prioritizing their education.
She warned that the traditional authority would sanction parents who fail to ensure their children’s attendance in school, aiming to reverse this detrimental behavior.
Similarly, the Chief of Wassa Dadieso in the Western Region, Nana Oteng Ababio II, reported significant damage caused by illegal miners.
Infrastructure such as roads, electricity poles, and water pipes have been destroyed, posing severe risks to the community. Nana Oteng Ababio II called on authorities to intervene, as the miners seem to operate with strong backing, jeopardizing both the environment and public safety.
The ongoing issues in these regions highlight the urgent need for governmental and community action to address the impact of illegal mining and support sustainable development efforts.
