Daredevil illegal miners target Bui Dam amid minister’s crackdown

The Bono Regional Minister, Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, along with the Regional Security Council (RESEC), has introduced stringent measures to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, particularly around the downstream of Bui Dam and its surrounding ecosystem.

The Bui Dam, Ghana’s second-largest hydroelectric facility with a 400-megawatt (MW) capacity, faces a serious threat from illegal mining activities. These operations are causing extensive environmental degradation, including deforestation and water pollution, which could disrupt the dam's efficiency and sustainability.

During a tour of galamsey-affected areas such as Branam, Wenchi, and Surugbokrom in the Banda District, Mr. Akwaboa, accompanied by RESEC members, assessed the damage and hinted at imminent action. While he did not disclose specific security measures, he assured that firm steps would be taken soon.

The Minister stated that National Security has been tasked with gathering detailed intelligence, including the locations and operational areas of illegal miners. This information will guide the implementation of stronger enforcement measures to curb galamsey in the region.

"You could see the color of the river (Tain River), and if we don’t act fast, it is going to affect the Bui Dam," he warned while addressing the media.

Coordinated Efforts to Combat Galamsey

Mr. Akwaboa hinted at a possible collaboration with the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources to launch a coordinated crackdown. He revealed that RESEC has identified key galamsey hotspots and is finalizing strategies to eliminate the menace.

Illegal miners flushed out from the southern parts of the country have now turned Branam in Wenchi and Banda Boase, Surugbokrom in the Banda District into safe havens. Their activities have led to massive deforestation, destruction of water bodies, and encroachment on cashew farms, threatening both agriculture and the environment.

The Minister expressed deep concern that, if left unchecked, the destruction of water sources and farmlands could lead to severe food and water shortages.

He also cited the activities of nomadic cattle herdsmen as an additional environmental threat, noting that collaboration with the Forestry Commission is underway to address their impact on forest reserves.

Foreign Involvement and Rising Concerns

Reports indicate that galamsey activities in the region have persisted for decades with minimal destruction. However, since 2022, Chinese nationals have partnered with local miners in Surugbokrom, Branam, and neighboring communities, supplying advanced equipment and technical expertise in exchange for gold. This collaboration has led to a surge in sophisticated illegal mining operations.

The growing involvement of foreign nationals has raised concerns about environmental damage and the exploitation of local communities. Some landowners, including cashew farmers, have even resorted to selling their farms to illegal miners, exacerbating the crisis.

Using highly toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, the miners openly wash gold ore in shallow pits. When it rains, these pits overflow, spilling hazardous substances onto the land and into water sources, causing severe pollution.

The Tain River, a lifeline for communities along its banks, is one of the worst-hit water bodies. Once a vital source of drinking water, irrigation, fishing, and household use for communities including Wenchi, Banda, Kabrono, and Tain, the river has turned a murky brown due to persistent pollution.

There have been instances where illegal miners directly discharge chemical-laden waste into the river, intermittently blocking its flow. This has posed a serious threat to local livelihoods, endangering water security, food production, and public health.

Minister Issues Stern Warning

During his visit, the Regional Minister cautioned King’s Award Ghana Ltd., a gold exploration company operating in Branam, against engaging in illegal mining, emphasizing that their mandate was solely for exploration.

He also appealed to traditional authorities to resist the temptation of leasing lands for galamsey activities, warning that they could face legal consequences for their involvement.

As the battle against galamsey intensifies, all eyes are on the government and security agencies to enforce stricter measures and safeguard Ghana’s environment and critical infrastructure, particularly the Bui Dam, from irreversible damage.

Galamsey Mercury-cyanide Dug Pit With Chemials Washed Into The Pit

Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboa Bono Regional Minister (middle) Interacting With Regsec Members