The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ahafo Ano South East , Hon. Ibrahim Yamba Nelson Issaka, has acknowledged significant progress in the fight against illegal mining activities in the district, while stressing that the battle is far from over.
According to the DCE, although illegal mining activities,commonly referred to as galamsey has not been completely eradicated, the intensity and scale of the activities have reduced considerably compared to previous years, as a result of sustained enforcement efforts and collaboration among key stakeholders.
“The fight against illegal mining has not ended, but it has improved greatly when compared to the past. It is not an easy fight, but we are determined to see it through to the end,” Hon. Issaka stated.
Speaking on Kessben Maakye show today with Wofa Kofi Appiah as monitored by broadcasters. com ,Hon. Ibrahim Yamba Nelson Issaka attributed the progress made so far to strong collaboration between his office, the Member of Parliament, security agencies, traditional authorities, and other relevant stakeholders within the district.
He emphasized that tackling illegal mining requires a collective and sustained approach rather than isolated efforts.
“With the hard work of myself, my MP, and the support of various stakeholders, we are confident that illegal mining in this district will eventually come to an end,” he added.
The DCE noted that coordinated patrols, community engagements, intelligence gathering, and public education have all contributed to the gradual decline in illegal mining operations, particularly in areas previously identified as hotspots.
Illegal mining has long posed serious threats to human lives, farmlands, water bodies, and the environment in parts of the Ashanti Region, including Ahafo Ano South East .
The DCE reiterated that the Assembly remains committed to protecting the district’s natural resources while ensuring the safety and livelihoods of residents.
He warned that the Assembly would not relent in enforcing mining regulations and prosecuting offenders, adding that illegal mining activities undermine sustainable development and long-term economic growth.
Commitment to a Safer District
Hon. Issaka assured residents that the Assembly will continue to intensify efforts to make Ahafo Ano South West a safe and environmentally sustainable district.
He called on community members to support the fight by providing credible information on illegal mining activities and resisting the temptation to shield offenders.
“This fight cannot be won by the Assembly alone. We need the full cooperation of chiefs, opinion leaders, youth groups, and the general public,” he appealed.
As the district continues its campaign against illegal mining, the DCE expressed optimism that with consistency, discipline, and stakeholder cooperation, the menace can be completely eliminated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to leave behind a legacy of environmental protection, community safety, and responsible resource management, assuring residents that the Assembly will not compromise in its quest to safeguard the district for future generations.
The renewed commitment by the Ahafo Ano South West District Assembly signals a firm stance against illegal mining and offers hope that sustained efforts will eventually bring a lasting end to the practice.
