Hundreds of Berekum residents held a peaceful demonstration on August 11, 2026, to protest illegal mining activities. Participants called on government and authorities to act promptly to safeguard the municipality’s farmlands, rivers, and environment. Traditional leaders, political representatives, health professionals, farmers, youth groups, and other residents participated in the march through Berekum’s main streets, carrying placards and banners that called for an end to illegal mining. Participants raised concerns about the destruction of cocoa farms, food crops, forests, and water bodies. They warned that ongoing illegal mining poses risks to agriculture, food security, public health, and the livelihoods of many residents.
Berekum East MP Supports Anti-Galamsey Campaign
The Member of Parliament for Berekum East, Hon. Ambaaneng Kyeremeh, joined the demonstration and called for coordinated efforts to address illegal mining. The MP stated that illegal mining is damaging fertile farmlands and polluting rivers that serve as key resources for domestic and agricultural use. He called for collaboration among government, traditional authorities, security agencies, and residents to preserve Berekum’s natural resources.
Traditional Leaders Reject Illegal Mining
The Berekum Amomaso Abusuapanin, a known anti-galamsey advocate, also appealed for stronger action against illegal mining.
He identified land and water resources as central to the community’s heritage and emphasized the need to protect them. Also speaking during the demonstration, Nana Oppong Boateng II rejected suggestions that illegal mining contributes to community development. He stated that sustainable development is not possible if environmental and livelihood destruction continues.
Health Workers Warn About Environmental and Health Risks
Health professionals at the demonstration warned that pollution from illegal mining may expose residents to contaminated water and environmental hazards. They noted that polluted rivers could increase the risk of waterborne diseases. Prolonged exposure to harmful substances from illegal mining may have long-term health effects, especially for children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups. Health workers called for immediate measures to protect the environment and public health.
Residents Cite Damage to Roads, Farms and Schools
Residents also reported that heavy excavation equipment used in illegal mining is damaging community roads. Demonstrators stated that damaged roads are making transportation difficult for farmers and limiting access to schools in affected communities. Participants indicated that the loss of agricultural land is reducing food production and threatening the local economy, which relies on farming.
Calls for Stronger Enforcement
Alhaji Ibrahim Nana Dwaah urged authorities to remove illegal miners from Berekum and to strengthen enforcement efforts. He stated that the destruction of farmlands and water pollution are directly affecting farmers and the broader community. Demonstrators called on government agencies, traditional authorities, environmental regulators, and security services to intensify efforts to stop illegal mining and protect Berekum’s natural resources. The protest concluded without incident. Participants reaffirmed their support for lawful measures to preserve the municipality’s land, rivers, forests, and agricultural future.
Ghana Beacon reported on the demonstration and interviewed community leaders, health professionals, residents, and public officials who participated in the anti-galamsey march.
By Ghana Beacon News Desk
August 11, 2026
