Berekum residents demand end to mining as galamsey pollutes Amoma River, destroys farmlands
Report by Daniel Donkor The people of Berekum and adjoining communities have delivered an uncompromising message to government, mining regulators and all prospective miners: they want no form of mining on their lands. Hundreds of residents, farmers, youth groups, traditional stakeholders and civil society actors from Berekum, Amomaso, Benkasa, Nsapor and Nanasuano took to the […]
Berekum residents recently gathered in a powerful demonstration, voicing their vehement opposition to mining activities in their community. Over 200 people, including farmers, youth groups, and civil society members, took to the streets to protest, demanding an end to illegal mining and its devastating impact on the Amoma River and farmlands.
The protesters marched through Berekum's main streets, chanting and displaying placards that highlighted their deep concerns over the environmental degradation and the potential health risks posed by mining activities.
The protesters' primary grievance is the pollution of the Amoma River, a vital source of water for domestic and agricultural purposes. They argue that illegal mining has led to a significant contamination of the river, threatening water security and food production. Farming, which has been a traditional livelihood for generations in the Berekum Traditional Area, is now at risk as the destruction of farmlands and water pollution continue to undermine the community's economic foundation.
One of the organizers, Nana Oppong Boateng Dartey, Dabehene of the Berekum Traditional Area, emphasized the community's unwillingness to trade their natural resources and agricultural future for temporary economic gains. He urged the government, mining regulators, and all prospective miners to halt all forms of mining in Berekum, warning that the people would not stand by as their environment and livelihoods are destroyed.
The protesters also expressed concerns about the potential long-term health consequences of exposure to pollutants and hazardous chemicals associated with illegal mining. They called for stronger enforcement of environmental laws and a stronger response to those engaged in illegal mining activities. The demonstration was organized by Berekum Citizens and Associates, along with other local associations, and was seen as part of a broader campaign to protect the environment and ensure the future of Berekum's land, water bodies, and agricultural heritage.
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
