Tano North MP sounds alarm over galamsey devastation, accuses officials of shielding perpetrators

Dr. Gideon Boako, the Member of Parliament for Tano North, expressed disappointment over escalating illegal mining and logging activities in his area on Friday during a community clean-up exercise in Tanoso. Dr. Boako described the destruction of the area's forest reserves and the Tano River as a crisis fueled by laxity and a lack of patriotism. He alleged that government appointees are complicit and shielding perpetrators.

Dr. Boako noted that until 18 months ago, the Tano North Municipality was largely illegal mining-free. The destruction began with the Adagyamim, Bisi, and Santasi resources and has now reached the Bosomkese Forest near Yamfo and Bomaa. The MP alleged that the identities of those destroying forest reserves and polluting water bodies are an open secret to the police, national security, traditional authorities, and the municipal assembly. He lamented that technocrats fear victimisation, residents fear physical attacks, and political figures remain silent to protect partisan interests. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has repeatedly warned that the high turbidity of rivers caused by galamsey increases treatment costs by over 300%. Available statistics indicate that Ghana has lost nearly 60% of its forest cover since 1950, with illegal mining and logging being the primary drivers today.

Dr. Boako is calling for an immediate, joint security force clampdown on illegal operations within the Tano North forests. Dr. Boako stated, "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." He is urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Ahafo Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to prioritise national preservation over political patronage.