Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has sounded the alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining on his concession at Akropong.
The site, earmarked for legitimate mining, has been overrun by galamsey operators, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The Asantehene’s concerns were echoed during a recent meeting with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.
He stressed the need for a concerted effort to combat the scourge of illegal mining, which has far-reaching consequences for the environment, economy, and local communities.
“The site that was given to me has been invaded by illegal miners,” the Asantehene lamented.
To effectively tackle the issue, the Asantehene proposed a holistic approach that incorporates security enforcement, regularization of small-scale mining, and the creation of alternative livelihoods for those involved in galamsey.
He emphasized that providing sustainable employment opportunities is crucial in dissuading individuals from engaging in illegal mining activities.
“These children who are engaged in galamsey need jobs,” the Asantehene noted.
“We need to assist them so they don’t go back to the sites,” he added.