The Mmrantihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Awuah Baffour, has clarified the recent unrest in the community, attributing the youth’s revolt against illegal miners to unresolved monetary issues.
Last week, the youth of Akyem Asuom took decisive action against illegal mining (galamsey) in the area, driving away the miners operating in their community. While this was seen as part of growing frustration over the environmental destruction caused by galamsey, further details suggest monetary disputes played a key role.
The Kontihene of the area, Nana Boadi Ampomenim Abodade III, mentioned that the community had previously reached out to security agencies and the Minerals Commission for intervention but received no response.
However, in an interview with Bernard Avle on Point of View on Channel One TV, Nana Baffour revealed that the youth’s actions were fueled by concerns over the management and distribution of funds from the mining activities. He emphasized their call for transparency and proper oversight to ensure the community benefits financially.
Nana Baffour also highlighted the youth’s demand for the formation of a town development committee to manage funds for local development projects.
“We had a misunderstanding regarding the ongoing work. It was a monetary issue, and many didn’t understand how the funds were being channeled. The youth decided to challenge that and demand change. We need a town development committee to ensure the money is directed towards community development. That’s why the youth revolted against the activities,” Nana Awuah Baffour explained.
He added, “The youth felt that if they weren’t informed about the use of the money, they would halt the mining activities and sit with the miners to ensure they received their dues. Those who haven’t reclaimed their lands would be required to do so.”
Meanwhile, Dominic Ofori Forson, the incoming Asafoatse of the community, insisted that the youth’s primary concern was the destruction of local resources, with the monetary issues being a secondary matter.
