Galamsey has been outlawed in the region with immediate effect by Katakyie Kwasi Bumagama II, the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council’s paramount chief.
The traditional chief’s conduct backed up President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo’s efforts to combat the threat.
During a meeting with divisional Chiefs at Okogyeabour Palace in Sefwi Wiawso to get their support for his move, he delivered the order through the head of Paboase, Nana Frimpong Manso.
All divisional chiefs have two weeks to make sure that all heavy machinery engaged in galamsey activities is removed from all illicit mining locations, in accordance with the directive.
Regular site visits are to be made after that, and the offenders of illicit mining are to be found and apprehended utilizing informants.
“Illegal mining has caused extensive damage to the environment, particularly water bodies, forest reserves, and farmland, and threatened food security with debilitating socio-economic consequences,” he said.
According to Katakyie Kwasi Bumagama II, all Ghanaians must take part in the fight against illegal mining, not just politicians.
He threatened to punish any chief working under the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council who disobeyed his directives.
He advised settlers to quit selling their fields to galamsey entrepreneurs right away or risk having their land taken.
The Paramount Chief, who also serves on the Forestry Commission’s board, urged the local government and security forces to help stop unlawful mining in the area.