The Nifahene of Okyeman under the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council in the Eastern Region, Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II, has imposed a total ban on mining activities in Asiakwa and its enclaves.

About two months ago, he and his cabinet initially halted mining along river bodies. This decision aligned with directives from Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Ofori Panin, to stop mining along the Birim River and other water bodies in the Akyem Abuakwa enclave, including Asiakwa's Supong River.

This initiative, led by the overlord of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, aims to protect water bodies from pollution caused by illegal mining activities.

Okyeman Nifahene, who also serves as Asiakwahene, stated that mining activities in the area bring no benefit to the community.

He explained that the miners' methods are destructive, prompting the decision to prohibit their operations, which occasioned with the issuance of a two-week ultimatum for them to reclaim the land and ordered the removal of all machinery from the site, as well as warning them to vacate the area immediately.



He cautioned that if any excavators remain on the sites after the deadline, they would be set ablaze.

Daasebre Twum Ampofo further emphasized that the chemicals used in mining are highly toxic, significantly degrading soil quality and making it unsuitable for farming and other purposes for years to come.

Asiakwahene acknowledged the economic impact of this directive on the community but stressed that he is restructuring mining activities in Asiakwa to ensure long-term benefits, especially for future generations.

On Thursday, March 20, 2025, a news team led by Kontihen Kofi Oboh visited some mining sites to assess compliance with Daasebre Twum Ampofo’s strict directive.

To their surprise, some miners had vacated the area, and others had begun land reclamation efforts. However, some continued mining activities despite the warning.

Several miners commended Asiakwahene for his efforts to protect land, water bodies, and agricultural resources.

They pledged to complete land reclamation within the given timeframe and appealed to him to reconsider the total ban, arguing that mining provides job opportunities for the youth and helps prevent social vices.

Credit: Kontihen Kofi Oboh