The youth of Akyem Asuom, a community in the Kwaebibirem district, have raised concerns over the adverse effects of illegal mining, known locally as ‘galamsey’, on their farming activities.
The community, which relies heavily on agriculture, is facing significant challenges due to the environmental degradation caused by these mining operations.
In an interview on the Point of View on Channel One TV, the youth highlighted how the once fertile lands, which supported various crops, have been severely impacted by the illegal mining activities.
They also noted that their waterbodies which they sourced water from for irrigation purposes had been destroyed.
The use of heavy machinery and chemicals in galamsey has led to soil erosion, water contamination, and the destruction of farmlands, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to sustain their livelihoods.
A youth who gave his name as Ekuoba noted “When we look at our water, it has been contaminated, and now we can’t use it for our irrigation because of the chemicals in it. Because of the galamsey, we don’t get water for our farming activities.”
He added, “That is why I plead with the elders, and we, the youth, have decided to do everything to end the galamsey activities. It is not someone who has given us money to do this.”
