A training session on going

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ellembelle in the Western Region, Joseph Agyekum, has pledged to provide alternative livelihoods to communities affected by illegal mining (galamsey) in the district.

Galamsey became widespread in the Ellembelle District in 2018, destroying many farmlands and water bodies due to its harmful effects.

Prior to the 2024 general elections, many Chinese nationals set up camp at Sendu in the Ellembelle District to engage in galamsey, supported by local community members.

Currently, galamsey activities have ceased in the Ellembelle District, and those Chinese nationals have fled following increased security measures.

The affected galamsey communities in Ellembelle District include Teleku Bokazo, Anwia, Bomoakpole, Sendu, Nkroful, Salman, Nvuma, and Fiasolo, among others.

All major water bodies in the Ellembelle District have been polluted due to illegal mining. Consequently, affected farmers have been forced to rely on sachet water for drinking and survival.

To prevent people from returning to galamsey activities, the new Ellembelle DCE, Joseph Agyekum, visited some galamsey sites on Friday, 25 April 2025, to assess the situation. He also met with chiefs and members of the affected communities.

Speaking to the media after the tour, Joseph Agyekum expressed concern over how selfish and unscrupulous individuals had destroyed farmlands and water bodies in the district.

He pledged to deal ruthlessly with anyone involved in illegal mining, stating: "As long as President John Dramani Mahama remains President of Ghana, Ellembelle will continue to be a no-go area for galamsey operators."

He advised all residents of Ellembelle District to stay away from galamsey activities.

Joseph Agyekum further pledged to provide alternative employment opportunities for the youth to deter them from engaging in illegal mining.

He said his tour would help him implement measures to reclaim devastated galamsey areas.

"We will plan carefully on how best to use time and resources to reclaim the degraded lands and provide alternative livelihoods for affected communities. I urge all the youth in Ellembelle to be patient," he added.

Some community members who spoke to the media commended the new DCE for inspecting the galamsey sites.