Residents of Akyem Anyinasin in the Abuakwa South Municipality have reignited their campaign against illegal mining, pledging to defend their agricultural lands, natural environment, and water sources from destruction.
Their resistance dates back to 2020, when two companies attempted to operate in the area without proper authorization. Investigations later revealed that the firms only possessed prospecting licenses but were engaged in full-scale mining. In response, the community—led by their chief, Nana Appiakorang Agyei II—took decisive action, including the burning of two excavators. This led the Abuakwa North Assembly to order a halt to the operations.
Despite these efforts, residents say the threat has resurfaced. In July 2025, Chief Appiakorang reportedly told community members he could no longer openly oppose the miners due to mounting pressure and intimidation from powerful individuals.
Speaking to the media, protest organizer William Boakye urged the chief to name those allegedly coercing him. He emphasized that Anyinasin is a farming community that has remained untouched by the devastation seen in neighboring towns affected by illegal mining. “We are the food basket of the municipality,” Boakye said. “We cannot allow mining to destroy our farmlands.”
The community has submitted a formal petition to the Presidency, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Okyenhene. In the petition, they called for authorities to reject any licensing or permits that would allow mining in the area, citing the severe impact on residents’ health, livelihoods, and the ecosystem.
Joining the protest, the advocacy group Save the Nation for Future Leaders, led by President Kwadwo Atta Appiah Korang, described illegal mining as a national and international crisis. Korang referred to the issue as an “environmental war,” noting that foreign nationals—including Chinese, Indians, and others—are involved in activities that threaten Ghana’s security. He called on global leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to lend their voices and resources to the fight against galamsey.
Korang praised the people of Anyinasin for their unwavering commitment to protecting their land and preserving their way of life.
