Kwabre East Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong, has expressed deep concern over the adverse effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s cocoa production.
Speaking on the issue, the lawmaker warned that the country’s cocoa bean yield is rapidly declining due to the activities of illegal miners, commonly known as galamsey operators.
He stressed that if urgent measures are not taken to curb the situation, the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry could be at serious risk.
“The yield of cocoa beans is declining at an alarming rate, and this is largely due to the impact of illegal mining,” Hon. Onyina-Acheampong stated.
“If this issue is not addressed, it will significantly affect the country’s cocoa production and economic progress.”
Illegal mining has been a major challenge in Ghana, with far-reaching environmental and economic consequences.
The contamination of water bodies and the destruction of arable lands have severely impacted agricultural productivity, particularly in cocoa-growing regions.
Hon. Onyina-Acheampong has called on authorities to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining and protect farmlands to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector, which remains a key contributor to the nation’s economy.
