The Minerals Commission has handed over 175 acres of reclaimed illegal mining sites to three communities in the Western North Region, aiming to restore the environment and improve socio-economic conditions. The initiative involved collaboration with local leaders and experts, emphasizing the need for conservation and sustainable practices to combat illegal mining.
The Minerals Commission has successfully transferred 175 acres of reclaimed illegal mining sites, known as galamsey lands, to three communities located within the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region. This initiative was part of the Lands Reclamation and Restoration Programme, encompassing the Sefwi Nambro, Nkatiso, and Surano “B” communities. The government’s aim through this reclamation is to restore the environment and bolster the socio-economic welfare of the affected residents.
A ceremonial event was hosted at Ogyeahohoo’s Palace in Sefwi Anhwiaso, accentuating the collaboration among key stakeholders, including community leaders and government officials. Mr. Stephen Abgo, the Deputy Manager of Community Relations at the Minerals Commission, commended the support of the local chiefs and residents that facilitated the project’s completion. He emphasized the dual role of mining in advancing the economy while underscoring the responsibility to rehabilitate lands affected by mining activities.
The reclamation efforts are envisioned to restore the ecological balance, transforming degraded landscapes into productive ecosystems and agricultural areas, ultimately benefiting local communities. Mr. Abgo highlighted the need for meticulous planning in the reclamation process, which involved cooperation with environmental experts and the communities.
Consultant Mr. Thomas Tsibo-Darko affirmed that the reclamation demonstrated a commitment to ecological restoration and sustainable development. He expressed gratitude to the stakeholders, particularly local chiefs, for their significant contributions to bringing the project to fruition.
Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II, the Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area, lauded the cooperative efforts of the government and the Minerals Commission. He acknowledged the far-reaching impacts of the reclamation initiative in local communities and reaffirmed the need for united efforts to combat illegal mining, which poses a grave threat to the environment and agriculture. He urged chiefs to safeguard the reclaimed areas for sustainable development purposes.
The Minerals Commission’s handover of reclaimed galamsey lands to three communities marks a significant step towards environmental restoration and socio-economic development in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality. This initiative, supported by local leaders and stakeholders, aims to heal damaged ecosystems and enhance the livelihoods of affected residents. The commitment to protecting these reclaimed lands is vital for ensuring sustainable growth and combating illegal mining practices in the region.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
