By P.K. Yankey
Atuabo, W/R, April 30, GNA – The Eastern Nzema Traditional Council has commended President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for revoking the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited in the Ellembelle District.
Speaking at a news conference in Atuabo, Awulae Blay IX, Paramount Chief of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area, said the Council welcomed the Ministry’s decision to revoke leases at Akango, Salman, and Nkroful.
The Minerals Commission recently revoked the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited, citing multiple breaches of the Minerals and Mining laws. These included illegal subcontracting without ministerial approval and the use of foreign nationals, including Chinese operatives, for galamsey activities on the concession.
Chiefs and Queen Mothers attended the conference clad in black cloth and red bands, symbolizing years of suffering under the company’s operations.
Awulae Blay IX stated that illegal and environmentally destructive mining on Adamus concessions had long harmed local communities. He noted that the company failed to deliver tangible development projects, provide scholarships to indigenes, or employ locals from its catchment area.
“For many years, the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area has hosted large-scale mining. We are not opposed to mining or development. We are opposed to destruction,” he said.
The Paramount Chief praised President Mahama for keeping his promise to protect water bodies and end impunity surrounding galamsey activities. He said the administration’s enforcement demonstrates respect for the rule of law after years of weak environmental regulation.
“To His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, you promised to reset Ghana and protect our water bodies. You have kept your word. The people of Eastern Nzema say ‘Ayekoo,’” he added.
Awulae Blay IX urged chiefs of affected communities to prevent illegal miners from accessing the concessions until a legal and responsible operator is appointed.
He also appealed to the Ministry to introduce Responsible Cooperative Mining to help safeguard the environment.
Addressing the youth, he cautioned against filling the vacuum with illegal mining activities. “The government revoked the large-scale license to stop destruction, not to give you a turn to destroy,” he said.
He further noted that the company ignored repeated complaints from communities such as Nkroful, Salman, and Akango regarding pollution of their main drinking water sources.
The Council concluded by offering prayers for the President and the Minister, asking for protection against individuals who may seek to sabotage efforts to restore environmental integrity in the Western Region.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Audrey Dekalu
Credit: P.K. Yankey, GNA