Politicians are behind illegal mining : Bono Chiefs

Regional Chiefs of Bono are bitterly accusing politicians of the country's unlawful mining activities. 

Citizens have expressed concern about the increased prevalence of illicit mining, which has resulted in the devastation of forests and water bodies. 

They have issued a warning to politicians and other Ghanaians who are supporting the illegal miners to stop doing so or face repercussions if found guilty. 

Nana Kwaku Bediako, President of the Subin Traditional Council, who represented the Bono regional house of Chiefs at the event, said politicians such as MPs and Ministers are the main problem of this menace. 

According to Nana Bediako, most politicians have the financial means to purchase excavators and mining equipment to harm land and water bodies in their galamsey activities. 

The operations of illegal miners, who are damaging the forest and polluting water bodies, have been a major topic of discussion in the country for the past few years. 

In response to the chiefs, Bono regional Minister Justina Owusu Banahene said that while chiefs cannot own excavators, they do control the lands. 
She also holds the chiefs responsible for giving territory to illicit miners. 

Fighting illegal mining, according to Prof Elvis Asare Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources, is a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders across the country. 

According to him, the government alone cannot fight galamsey activities, but with the help of chefs and residents, they can be eradicated from the system.