The Concerned Youth of Mpasaaso No.2 in the Ahafo Ano South West District of the Ashanti Region have taken a firm stand against illegal mining, which has become rampant in their community.
Despite the recent destoolment of Nana Ampofo Twumasi II, the Chief of Mpasaaso No.2, by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on March 11, 2025, due to misconduct including involvement in illegal mining, the activity continues unabated. Forests, rivers, and farmlands in the area are still being destroyed.
In Mpasaaso Akyease, the situation is even more alarming, as illegal miners have moved into the heart of the town. As mining activities are taking place dangerously close to homes, schools, and churches.
“This is just four steps from the Church of Pentecost Central Assembly, two steps from someone’s house, and six steps from the Akyease D/A School,” said Mr. Kwadwo Asare, the leader of the Concerned Youth. “Enough is enough. We have started clearing them from these places and asked them to cover the pits they left behind.”
Mr. Asare, who has been accused by some individuals of being behind the galamsey operations, strongly denied the claims. “My mother is the Queenmother and caretaker of this community. I can’t do anything to disgrace her. I’ve sacrificed myself to uproot these activities from our land,” he said.
He also alleged that some elders in the area are backing the illegal operations. “The former chief, the Abusuapanin of Akyease, and the Akwamuhene of Mpasaaso No.2 are involved. I have evidence,” he stated.
The youth leader called on government to deploy the anti-galamsey task force to their community. “We are ready to support them. Our farmlands have been destroyed and we have no food to eat,” he lamented.
A visit to Mpasaaso Akyease by Silver Fm’s Akwadaa Nyame confirmed that mining is taking place in the middle of the community, posing serious threats to residents, particularly school children. The youth are calling on authorities to act swiftly before the situation worsens.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
