Tano North Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Gideon Boako, has raised a stark warning regarding the rampant illegal mining (galamsey) and logging activities devastating his constituency in the Ahafo region. Speaking on Friday during a community clean-up exercise in Tanoso to mark International Workers’ Day, Dr. Boako accused regional government appointees of shielding perpetrators, exacerbating the environmental and public health crisis threatening the Tano River and local forest reserves.
Escalating Environmental Crisis
Dr. Boako highlighted the alarming transformation of Tano North, which was largely free of illegal mining just 18 months ago. He described a sudden invasion of individuals, whom he termed “nation wreckers,” systematically targeting the area’s natural resources. The destruction has moved from the Adagyamim, Bisi, and Santasi areas to the significant Bosomkese Forest near Yamfo and Bomaa.
This destruction impacts vital ecosystems, wiping out endemic plant species used in traditional medicine and disrupting natural flood control mechanisms. The Tano River, a critical water source for thousands, faces severe pollution, leading to increased water treatment costs for the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) by over 300% and, in some instances, necessitating the shutdown of water treatment plants.
Allegations of Complicity and Fear
The MP asserted that the identities of those responsible for the environmental degradation are an open secret among local authorities, including the police, national security, traditional leaders, and the municipal assembly. He lamented a climate of fear and silence, where technocrats allegedly fear victimisation, residents fear physical attacks, and political figures prioritize partisan interests over environmental protection.
“All the region’s forest reserves and water bodies are being wiped away by a few family and friends of politicians while the sons and daughters of Ahafo sit unconcerned,” Dr. Boako stated, underscoring his frustration with the lack of decisive action.
Broader National Impact of Galamsey
The devastation in Tano North mirrors a nationwide crisis. Ghana has lost nearly 60% of its forest cover since 1950, with illegal mining and logging being the primary drivers. This trend not only devalues the formal timber industry, which contributes approximately 2% to Ghana’s GDP, but also poses significant threats to food security and public health.
Research indicates that galamsey operations introduce toxic substances like mercury and cyanide into the food chain. These contaminants accumulate in local crops and fish, leading to alarming levels that can cause severe long-term health issues, including kidney failure and birth defects. Furthermore, illegal mining has encroached upon thousands of hectares of cocoa farms, directly threatening Ghana’s position as a leading global cocoa producer and jeopardizing the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers.
Call for Urgent Action
In response to the escalating crisis, Dr. Boako is demanding an immediate, joint security force clampdown on illegal mining and logging operations within the Tano North forests. He urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Ahafo Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to prioritize national preservation efforts over political patronage.
Looking Ahead
The MP’s strong accusations and the dire environmental situation in Tano North underscore the urgent need for accountability and robust enforcement of environmental laws. The coming months will reveal whether regional and national authorities will heed the call for action, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of government appointees and a more concerted effort to combat the pervasive illegal mining and logging activities that threaten Ghana’s natural heritage and future prosperity.
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