Nzema East, Western Region, Ghana – Nana Ette Akrade II, the divisional chief of Gwira Banso in the Nzema East Municipality, has awarded five residents GH₵50,000 for their efforts in apprehending illegal miners operating within the Gwira Banso Forest Reserve.
Illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, continues to devastate Ghana’s forests, rivers, and farmlands. Chiefs in mining communities have been repeatedly urged to support government initiatives to curb the menace.
Demonstrating his commitment, Nana Ette Akrade II publicly recognised the residents’ bravery at a community gathering, while the arrested offenders remain in police custody.
“Residents are reminded not to engage in mining activities in rivers and forest reserves. Offenders will face the full force of the law,” the chief warned.
The residents, who carried out the arrests, expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to intensify community efforts against galamsey. They also called for additional resources and logistics to strengthen local operations against illegal mining.
This initiative reflects a growing trend of community-led action in collaboration with traditional authorities to safeguard natural resources and enforce environmental laws.
Source – My News Ghana
