Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in the Banda District of the Bono Region is posing a severe threat to the operations of the Bui Generating Station (BGS), according to the Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboa.
During a visit with the Bono Regional Security Council and members of the press on March 4, 2025, Hon. Akwaboa expressed deep concern over the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining activities in the Wenchi Municipality and Banda District.
He emphasized the urgent need for collective and decisive action to curb the menace and safeguard critical national assets.
Inspecting illegal mining sites at Nipakro and Surobokrom in the Banda District, as well as Branam in the Wenchi Municipality, the Minister was alarmed by the extent of damage to forest reserves and cashew plantations.
He noted that while galamsey is often associated with the Western and Central regions, the situation in Banda was even more dire than he had imagined.
“If this menace is not immediately addressed, it could severely impact the operations of the Bui Generating Station and destroy vital water bodies in the area,” he warned.
“We cannot afford to compromise a facility that provides electricity and water for numerous communities.”
Hon. Akwaboa also issued a strong warning to traditional leaders, urging them to stop leasing lands for illegal mining activities or face legal consequences.
“Some chiefs are complicit in these illegal activities,” he lamented. “This must stop.”
This visit marks the second time in less than a month that the Minister has toured illegal mining sites since assuming office, underscoring his commitment to tackling the issue.
He assured the public that his administration would take all necessary measures to protect the region’s natural resources and critical infrastructure.
