Kofi Pare residents threaten to withdraw support from NPP over galamsey
Kofi Pare, Eastern Region, Ghana - October 30, 2024 - Traditional leaders and residents of Kofi Pare, a cocoa-growing community in Ghana's Eastern Region says they will withdraw their support from the ruling government if immediate action is not taken to rid their town of galamsey(illegal mining).
Ignite Mining Limited, a company operating under a prospecting license, has allegedly destroyed acres of cocoa and sugarcane plantations, polluted vital water sources, and intimidated locals with armed guards.
The community, which has declared itself a no-mining zone, is demanding immediate government action to halt the destructive operations.
Eric Awuku Offei, spokesperson for the traditional council, expressed the community's fears, citing the use of pump action guns and intimidation tactics by armed guards.
“The people entered the farm unlawfully and as we are speaking, the mining is going on and they are also using pump action guns in the community, which is threatening the lives of the people of Kofi Pare and they are also causing environmental degradation and we all know the consequences of the mining in this country.
“We are calling on the government that if measures are not taken to curb the situation over here, the unlawful mining, unlawful prospecting, and unlawful entry into our lands. We will vote against the sitting government,'' he stated.
This crisis is not isolated, as Ghana's cocoa industry has long faced threats from illegal mining. In fact, galamsey mining has been linked to contaminated water, deforestation, and violent crime, with cocoa production trending downwards since 2011. The conflict between gold mining and cocoa farming has become a pressing national issue, with Ghana's government struggling to balance economic benefits with environmental and safety concerns.
The Human Cost
Residents of Kofi Pare are not just fighting for their livelihoods but also their safety. The presence of armed guards has instilled fear among locals, who are being kept from protecting their land. The community's ultimatum to the government is clear: address the illegal mining, or face the consequences at the polls.
A National Crisis
Ghana's cocoa industry is a vital part of its economy and national identity. However, the unchecked growth of galamsey mining poses a significant threat to the country's agricultural sector. With the international cocoa market already experiencing fluctuations, Ghana can ill afford to lose its competitive edge.
Source: Lead News Online
