Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
Nana Yim Awere Ababio II, the Chief of Toase, has called on Hon. Seth Osei Akoto and Hon. Shirley Kyei, Members of Parliament for Atwima Mponua and Atwima Nwabiagya South respectively, to join forces in combating the illegal mining scourge threatening the region’s environment and livelihoods.
Speaking at the Akwasidae festival held at the Toase Palace on Sunday, the traditional ruler issued a passionate appeal to the two legislators to prioritize the protection of natural resources, particularly forests and water bodies that are under siege from Galamsey operators.“Our future is at stake. Illegal mining is not just an environmental issue—it’s a threat to our very existence. I am calling on you, our MPs, to lead a united front in this battle. Let us not fail our people,” Nana Yim Awere Ababio II declared.
The chief’s remarks struck a chord with attendees, as he highlighted the pressing need for political will and community collaboration in the ongoing fight against illegal mining in the Atwima area.
In response, Hon. Seth Osei Akoto, who is also the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary candidate for Atwima Mponua, assured the chief and the people of his commitment to eradicating illegal mining in the district. He emphasized that safeguarding the environment is essential to achieving long-term development.“I’m fully aware of the damage Galamsey has caused, and I am ready to take decisive steps to stop it. We must act now to save our land and water for future generations,” Hon. Akoto stated.
Hon. Shirley Kyei, MP for Atwima Nwabiagya South, reiterated her stance on the issue, noting that illegal mining has been a national crisis with devastating effects. She welcomed the chief’s challenge and promised to continue championing efforts to curb the menace.“This is a shared responsibility. It’s not just for government or chiefs — it’s for all of us. I stand with you, Nana, and I will work with my colleague MPs and stakeholders to intensify the fight against Galamsey,” she affirmed.
The environmental toll of illegal mining in Ghana, particularly in the Ashanti Region, has drawn growing concern from both leaders and citizens. With traditional authorities like the Toasehene adding their voice, pressure is mounting on political leaders to deliver lasting solutions.
The Akwasidae celebration ended on a hopeful note, with residents applauding the chief’s bold leadership and looking forward to stronger collaborative actions to reclaim and preserve the region’s natural resources.
