By Alex Ababio
Ghanaian Watch In-Depth Investigation has revealed devastating Impact of Illegal Mining on Manso Atwedie environment and local community.
Manso Atwedie, a community located in the Ashanti region of Ghana, has become a hotspot for illegal mining activities, popularly known as “Galamsey.” The lucrative but unlawful practice involves excavating, refining, and selling precious minerals such as gold without the required permits or following proper regulations.
An in-depth investigation carried out by a team of journalists and environmentalists led by Alex Ababio has revealed the devastating impact of Galamsey on the environment and local community in Manso Atwedie. The report uncovered a web of corruption and illegal practices involving prominent people in the area, including chiefs and politicians.
According to the report, the illegal mining activities have resulted in the destruction of vast tracts of land, deforestation, and pollution of water bodies. The use of dangerous chemicals such as mercury and cyanide in the refining process has also caused health hazards to the miners and the local community.
One of the affected community members, Akua Afriyie, narrated how her family has been negatively impacted by the Galamsey activities. “Our farms have been destroyed, and the water bodies we rely on for drinking and irrigation have been polluted. Our health is also at risk due to the chemicals used in the mining process,” she lamented.
The investigation further revealed that some prominent people in the community, including chiefs and politicians, are deeply involved in the Galamsey business. They allegedly use their influence and power to flout the laws and regulations and exploit the natural resources of the area for their personal gain.
The report also identified specific names of individuals involved in illegal mining activities. They include the chief of Manso Atwedie, Nana Baffour Asare Brempong, and the former Member of Parliament for the area, Joseph Albert Quarm.
When contacted, Nana Baffour Asare Twi Brempong denied the allegations, stating that he is only a custodian of the land and has no control over the mining activities. Joseph Albert Quarm, on the other hand, did not respond to calls and messages sent to him.
The devastating impact of Galamsey on the environment and local community in Manso Atwedie calls for urgent action to be taken to curb the illegal practice. The government, in collaboration with environmental organizations and community members, needs to work together to enforce regulations and prosecute those involved in the illegal mining activities.
In conclusion, the in-depth investigation has exposed the harsh reality of the illegal mining activities in Manso Atwedie and the devastating impact on the environment and local community. It is high time for all stakeholders to take responsibility and work towards ending this illegal practice to preserve the environment and protect the health and wellbeing of the local community.