Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has expressed his grave worry about illegal miners’ invading his mining concession, which has caused extensive damage.
He expressed his displeasure that the threat of illegal mining still exists in spite of official efforts to stop it.
The Asantehene underlined the necessity of more robust steps to tackle the problem during a meeting with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources on Friday, February 14, pointing out its negative impacts on the economy and ecology.
He advocated for a comprehensive strategy that would include regularizing small-scale mining activities, offering substitute sources of income to individuals involved in illicit mining, and sending security forces to guard concessions.
He claimed that without his knowledge, unlicensed miners have taken over his mining concession in Akropong.
“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.”
The Asantehene stressed the necessity of all-encompassing policies, such as the provision of jobs, in order to give illegal miners options.
“These children who are engaged in galamsey need jobs. We need to assist them so they don’t go back to the sites.”
KA