The Minerals Commission has transferred 175 acres of reclaimed illegal mining lands to three communities in Western North Region as part of a program aimed at restoring degraded areas and enhancing local socio-economic conditions, with key stakeholders emphasizing the importance of protecting these lands.
The Minerals Commission has officially transferred 175 acres of reclaimed illegal mining sites, commonly referred to as galamsey lands, to three communities in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region. This initiative was part of the Lands Reclamation and Restoration Programme aimed at rehabilitating areas degraded by illegal mining activities in the Sefwi Nambro, Nkatiso, and Surano “B” communities.
The reclamation project, undertaken by the government through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, sought to regenerate these areas and enhance the socio-economic conditions of the affected populations. A ceremony at Ogyeahohoo’s Palace in Sefwi Anhwiaso celebrated this achievement, gathering stakeholders, including traditional leaders and government officials.
Mr. Stephen Abgo, Deputy Manager and Community Relations officer of the Minerals Commission, expressed gratitude to the chiefs and residents for their unwavering support throughout the project. He emphasized the dual role of mining in fostering economic growth and the necessity of land protection and restoration, indicating that the reclamation effort offered a chance to rejuvenate the environment and convert damaged landscapes into flourishing ecosystems.
Mr. Abgo highlighted that the successful reclamation necessitated thorough planning, innovative methods, and collaborative efforts with environmental experts and local communities. He urged the chiefs from the beneficiary communities to safeguard the restored lands as a testament to the government’s investment.
Project consultant Mr. Thomas Tsibo-Darko remarked that the restoration of lands damaged by hazardous mining practices underscores a dedication to ecological recovery and sustainable development. He extended his gratitude to local stakeholders, particularly the chiefs, for their critical contributions to the initiative’s success.
Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II, Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area, commended the government and the Minerals Commission for their collaborative approach to this vital undertaking, asserting that its effects on the communities are profound. He characterized illegal mining as a pervasive issue requiring collective action to mitigate. Furthermore, he admonished local chiefs to discourage illegal mining that harms water bodies, forest reserves, and cocoa farms, and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to ensuring the sustainable management of the reclaimed lands.
In summary, the handover of reclaimed galamsey sites to three communities in the Western North Region signifies an important step in restoring the environment and improving local socio-economic conditions. The collaboration among various stakeholders reflects a commitment to sustainable development and highlights the need for ongoing education and protection of these reclaimed lands against illegal mining practices.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
