The Ashanti Regional Security Task Force has reclaimed about 10 acres of forest reserve that had been taken over by illegal miners in the Offinso shelter belt in the Atwima Mponua District.
The land had been occupied by armed miners whose activities posed a serious threat to environmental conservation efforts.
“We initially gave them an ultimatum to leave the site peacefully or be removed. Some complied, but others refused. Finally, with the support of the joint security team, we have successfully reclaimed over 10 acres of this rich forest reserve,” Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene told the Daily Graphic.
Dr. Amoakohene, who assumed office just about four weeks ago, emphasized his commitment to “rebuilding Ashanti Region.”
Galamsey Crackdown
The Regional Minister, together with Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah and a joint police-military task force, led the operation to reclaim the land.
“We went there to assess the level of destruction and determine how best to restore the land,” Dr. Amoakohene said, adding that under his leadership, illegal mining in the region would be drastically reduced if not eliminated.
‘Tree for Life’ Initiative
As part of efforts to restore degraded lands, the Lands Ministry is set to launch a reforestation project dubbed Tree for Life at the reclaimed site in Offinso.
Dr. Amoakohene said the initiative, which will be piloted in the Ashanti Region, aims to promote afforestation and responsible mining.
“As a government, we want to support miners to operate the right way—by obtaining the necessary licenses, documentation, and supervision—so they can reclaim the land as they mine,” he stated, adding that responsible mining could create jobs for the youth.
Kejetia Market Redevelopment
The minister also revealed that he has taken steps to address concerns of traders at the new Kejetia Market and to facilitate the completion of the second phase of the Kejetia/Central Market Redevelopment Project.
“We have made a bold decision on the management of Kejetia. The management has been dysfunctional for almost two years now,” he said, citing financial mismanagement, insurance lapses, and locked-up funds in escrow accounts.
He assured that his team would work to resolve the issues and ensure the completion of the Central Market project to accommodate displaced traders currently selling on the streets.
Decongesting Kumasi
Dr. Amoakohene further ordered the demolition of unauthorized structures in Kumasi’s central business district to address congestion.
“Encroachment in the city is disheartening. We urge residents to cooperate with authorities to restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic,” he said.
Strengthening Ties With Graphic
Dr. Amoakohene made these remarks during a visit by a Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) delegation, led by Zonal Business Manager Benjamin Tsatsu Korsinah, to strengthen collaboration in promoting credible news in the region.
Mr. Korsinah assured that GCGL would continue to highlight developmental efforts and provided free subscriptions to the Graphic NewsPlus app for the regional minister and some staff of the Regional Coordinating Council.
Graphic