Minister declares war on illegal mining

By Sampson Adu-Poku, GNA
Kumasi, May 27, GNA - The Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr. John Alexander Ackon, says tackling the destructive activities of illegal gold miners is his major priority.

He said he was determined to do everything to rein in the miners, wreaking havoc on the environment and threatening the very survival of the people.

Speaking at a press soiree held by the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in Kumasi, he stated the pollution of water bodies and destruction of forest reserves and farmlands would have to stop.

Mr. Ackon noted that access to good drinking water was already becoming a huge difficulty to many a rural dweller.

The evening party provided the opportunity for the Regional Minister to interact with journalists and chart a common course to speed up the development of the region.

He touched on the tension between the people of Agogo and nomadic Fulani herdsmen and said they were making progress in efforts at de-escalating the situation.

Mr. Ackon said what he found refreshing was that all the stakeholders were beginning to appreciate the need to dialogue to find a common ground.

He encouraged the youth in the area to come to the negotiating table to help find enduring solution to the problem.

He used the occasion to remind the journalists to maintain high standards of professionalism to assist protect the peace as the nation readied to go to the polls later, this year.

GNA