Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
The Chief of Toase, Nana Yim Awere Ababio II, has issued a strong call to action to Members of Parliament for Atwima Mponua and Atwima Nwabiagya South, urging them to take a firm stand against illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey, which continues to wreak havoc on the environment and water bodies in the area.
Speaking during the Akwasidae festival celebration held at his palace on Sunday, the revered traditional leader openly challenged Hon. Seth Osei Akoto and Hon. Shirley Kyei to lead efforts to eradicate Galamsey activities in their respective districts.“Illegal mining is destroying our rivers, farmlands, and forests. It’s time our political leaders moved beyond talk and took real action. Hon. Seth and Hon. Shirley, we are counting on you to be at the forefront of this fight,” the chief declared.
The call comes amid increasing public concern over the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining operations, particularly in forested areas of the Ashanti Region.
In response, Hon. Seth Osei Akoto, the NPP parliamentary candidate for Atwima Mponua, expressed his readiness to collaborate with key stakeholders to tackle the menace head-on. He pledged to work closely with security agencies, traditional leaders, and community members to implement lasting solutions.“I am committed to fighting Galamsey. Our environment must be protected if we are to achieve meaningful development. This is not just a political promise — it is a duty I owe to my people,” Hon. Akoto assured.
Also addressing the issue, Hon. Shirley Kyei, MP for Atwima Nwabiagya South, emphasized the devastating effects of illegal mining on both the environment and public health. She welcomed the chief’s bold challenge and noted that it reflects the urgent need for all leaders to take responsibility.“This issue affects every one of us — whether in politics, chieftaincy, or the ordinary citizen. It’s time we unite against Galamsey. I will do my part to ensure policies are enforced and our lands are preserved,” she said.
Galamsey remains a major concern in Ghana, often leading to polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands, and conflicts within affected communities. The involvement of traditional authorities, such as the Toasehene, is seen as a critical step in mobilizing collective action.
As the Akwasidae celebration concluded, many residents expressed support for the chief’s stance and called for immediate interventions to reclaim and restore the region’s natural resources.
