The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has escalated pressure on the government to take decisive legal action against Akonta Mining Ltd, a company accused of causing extensive environmental harm through illegal mining. The Coalition’s urgent call comes amid growing frustration over perceived delays in prosecuting the firm and related officials.
In a statement issued on Sunday, May 18, Convenor Kenneth Ashigbey criticized the government for what he described as a lack of follow-through despite clear evidence implicating Akonta Mining in damaging forest reserves and polluting vital water sources. The Coalition referenced an investigative documentary by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources that exposed the company’s operations within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve and the pollution of the Tano River since 2022.
While acknowledging the government’s action to freeze Akonta Mining’s bank accounts, the group insists that this is an insufficient response. They argue that only full criminal prosecution of both the company and any government officials who may have facilitated or ignored the illegal activities will send a strong message against impunity.
The Coalition further urged that investigations extend to personnel within the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and security agencies to determine if negligence or complicity contributed to the ongoing environmental destruction.
This latest demand underscores a widening call from civil society for Ghana’s leadership to reinforce its commitment to protecting natural resources and uphold the rule of law in the fight against illegal mining.
