The Queen Mother of Seniagya in the Sekyere East District, Nana Ama Agyekumwaa Adomakoaa, together with residents and local farmers, has launched a desperate plea to His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and President John Dramani Mahama to urgently intervene and stop illegal sand winning operations wreaking havoc on farmlands, water bodies, and livelihoods in the community.
In a heartfelt interview with the media, Nana Ama Agyekumwaa Adomakoaa described the sand winning activities as rampant, uncontrolled, and devastating. She explained that large portions of fertile farmland have been destroyed, water sources polluted, and staple food crops lost, leaving farmers struggling to sustain their families.
“The activities of sand winning have completely destroyed our lands and water sources,” the Queen Mother lamented. “Some of the operators are also engaging in illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, on lands without our consent. We are calling on His Royal Majesty and the President to come to our aid and help stop this destruction.”
The Queen Mother disclosed that the matter has been reported to the police multiple times, but enforcement has been ineffective, allowing the destructive activities to continue unabated. Expressing deep frustration, she warned that the community could no longer remain passive while their resources and heritage are being destroyed.
Residents and farmers who spoke to the media echoed the Queen Mother’s concerns, highlighting that agriculture—the mainstay of the community—has been severely affected. Contaminated water sources and destroyed farmlands have made it increasingly difficult to cultivate crops and provide for families.
“We are not opposed to development, but economic activities must respect environmental laws, safeguard livelihoods, and observe the authority of traditional leadership,” a local farmer said. “We appeal to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and President Mahama to take immediate action and hold those responsible accountable.”
Community members emphasized that while they welcome initiatives that foster growth and development, these must be sustainable and in harmony with environmental conservation and traditional governance.
The Queen Mother, residents, and farmers remain hopeful that prompt intervention by the Asantehene and the President will protect Seniagya’s farmlands, preserve its environment, and ensure the wellbeing of current and future generations.
