The Tetretem Royal Family of Duayaw-Nkwanta has expressed shock at the recent surge of illegal mining activities in the area, describing the phenomenon as new and completely unheard of in the municipality’s history. 

The family said that galamsey was never part of the traditional area’s heritage until recently.

In a press statement signed by Nana Asamaa Kofi Ofori Adu, the family stated, “During the reign of Nana Blakey Tromo III, there were no mining activities on any part of the Duayaw-Nkwanta Stool Lands except Newmont Mining Company, which was officially approved by the government.”

The family accused the current acting president of the Duayaw-Nkwanta Traditional Council, Nana Boakye II, and the MCE of promoting galamsey operations in collaboration with foreign nationals. 

“They have permitted Chinese and Senegalese miners to operate on our lands without legal backing,” the statement alleged.

They also lamented the environmental impact of these activities, noting the destruction of forest reserves, farmlands and water bodies in the area. “Our sacred lands at Adagyamem, Adrobea and Bisi have been encroached upon by galamseyers,” the family said.

The Tetretem Royal Family has called for urgent intervention from the Asantehene and the Tano North Municipal Security Council to halt the menace. 

“This illegal activity is alien to our customs and must be eradicated before it destroys our land and peace,” the statement concluded.