Amenfi West: Breman Chiefs and Elders Allegedly Assign Sacred Stream “KANFEY” to Galamsey Operations

A concerned resident of Asankran Breman in the Amenfi West Municipality of the Western Region of Ghana, identified as Elder Paul Ayerakwa, has issued a public plea to address the escalating threat posed by illegal mining activities, locally known as “galamsey,” within the community. Ayerakwa specifically highlighted the devastating impact these activities are having on the town’s infrastructure, water sources, and the overall safety of residents.

In a statement released to the public, Ayerakwa expressed deep concern over the expansion of galamsey operations within Asankran Breman. He alleged that certain chiefs and elders in the community have sanctioned the exploitation of land near the “KANFEY,” a sacred stream located near Nkubem. Ayerakwa warned that this activity poses a significant risk to nearby homes, as the mining operations could undermine the structural integrity of the buildings.

Ayerakwa also pointed to the prior destruction of the “ABONYONO,” a location described as being in the “heart of the town,” by previous galamsey activities. This destruction, he argued, underscores the destructive potential of these operations and the urgent need for intervention.

Ayerakwa called upon the citizens and natives of Breman and the neighbouring town of Oda to unite and fight against the encroachment of galamsey. He specifically implored the Assemblyman for Oda and his counterpart in Breman Ishmael Tanoh (Ratata) to treat the matter with the utmost seriousness. He warned that the Oda road is particularly vulnerable and could be severely damaged or even rendered impassable during the rainy season due to the destabilizing effects of the mining activities.

The concerned resident further highlighted the tragic human cost of galamsey, stating that “over twenty people have died in a GALAMSEY pit in Breman alone,” over the years. This statistic served as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in unregulated mining and the potential for further loss of life if the issue is not addressed promptly. Ayerakwa expressed confidence that the people of Wassa would understand the gravity of the situation and support the call for action.

Ayerakwa’s statement underscores the urgent need for authorities to investigate the alleged involvement of chiefs and elders in facilitating illegal mining activities and to take decisive action to protect the community of Asankran Breman from further environmental degradation, infrastructure damage, and loss of life.