The Western North Regional Communication Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Addo Yaw Harry, widely known as Ogyaba, has raised concerns over the escalating illegal mining (galamsey) activities in the Sefwi Akontombra Constituency, describing it as a severe security threat endangering the lives of residents.
Speaking on the issue, Ogyaba highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey on water bodies, particularly the Asensu River in the Asensu community, located in the Kramokrom Electoral Area.
He attributed the uncontrolled destruction to the alleged inaction of the Member of Parliament for the constituency, Pious Kwame Nkuah.
“Illegal mining in the constituency is not a new phenomenon, but the scale of destruction has now reached catastrophic levels. The devastation caused by these activities is undeniable, leaving our people in distress,” Addo Yaw Harry stated.
He further revealed that since the general elections, residents in galamsey-affected areas have struggled to access clean drinking water or even water for farming purposes, particularly for spraying cocoa farms.
The pollution and depletion of water sources have exacerbated hardships, forcing communities into dire circumstances.
“What we are witnessing is not just illegal mining—it is an act of environmental terrorism against the people of Akontombra,” he asserted.
“Our lands, rivers, and livelihoods are being destroyed with impunity, and the government must act decisively to bring this crisis under control.”
Addo Yaw Harry urged authorities to take immediate action to curb the illegal mining activities before the situation worsens.
“The people of Akontombra deserve better. We cannot sit idly by while our future is being wiped away. It is time for urgent intervention before this man-made disaster spirals further out of control,” he emphasized.
