Berekum chiefs and youth protest against rising galamsey in Amomaso

Tensions are rising in Berekum as traditional leaders and residents took to the streets to demonstrate against the sudden emergence of illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, in the Amomaso community.

The protest, held on Thursday, April 23, drew a large crowd of youth and elders and ended with the presentation of a petition to the government and the Minerals Commission.

Demonstrators voiced serious concerns that unchecked illegal mining could damage key water sources and farmlands within the Berekum traditional area.

Speaking to the media, Nana Owusu Ansah, Chief of Kato and Wirempehene of the area, clarified that the community is not opposed to mining itself but rejects any operations that ignore environmental laws and traditional authority. He stressed that protecting the land and safeguarding future generations must take priority over short-term economic gains.

The group submitted a petition to several stakeholders, including Members of Parliament for Berekum East and West, local assemblies, and the Berekum Traditional Council. They specifically called on the Minerals Commission to halt the issuance of mining permits in Amomaso and nearby communities.

Youth leaders also warned that they would sustain their protests if any unauthorised mining equipment is brought into forest areas.

The petition was received by the Member of Parliament for Berekum East, Simon Ampaabeng Kyeremeh, who expressed support for the demonstrators and assured them he would present their concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Residents are now awaiting a response from the Minerals Commission, hoping swift action will prevent the situation from escalating into a major environmental crisis.