Residents of Bompata in the Asante Akim District of the Ashanti Region have declared that they won’t allow any form of mining activity in their community.
At a press conference meeting, the community members emphasized their collective decision to resist all attempts by individuals or companies to explore or mine gold in the area.
They described the move as a proactive step to preserve the environment for future generations.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, spokesperson Joseph Baah said the community’s firm stance was motivated by the widespread devastation caused by illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in several parts of Ghana.
“Our position is based on the serious environmental, social, and health consequences that mining has caused in other parts of the country. We will not allow mining in our community,” Mr. Baah declared.
He noted that mining often leads to the destruction of farmlands, vegetation, and forest resources, which directly threatens the livelihood of the people of Bompata who depend heavily on agriculture.
“Our specific concern includes, but is not limited to, the destruction of farm lands, vegetation, and forest resources. We cannot allow the same fate to befall our community,” he added.
The residents also urged the government and all relevant authorities to respect their decision and refrain from granting any mining concessions or permits in Bompata.
They further encouraged other communities across the country to emulate their example by taking a strong stance against environmentally harmful mining operations.
“We are determined to protect our future and that of our children. The government must support communities that choose the environment over short-term economic gain,” the statement concluded.
