Gwira Youth Accuse Omanhene Awulae Angama Tuagyan II Of Galamsey Complicity, Demand Government Intervention
The Gwira Youth for Development have issued a passionate call for urgent government intervention as they raise alarm over the rampant destruction of their environment due to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey.
The group is accusing their traditional leaders, especially the Omanhene of the Gwira Traditional Council, Awulae Angama Tuagyan II, of being complicit in the crisis.
According to the youth, foreign illegal miners have taken over their farmlands and polluted major water bodies, exposing residents to life-threatening diseases such as cancer and kidney problems.
The pollution, they say, is not only destroying their livelihoods but endangering the entire Gwira stretch.
In a petition submitted to the government, the Western Regional Minister, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the youth blamed the Omanhene and some sub-chiefs, arguing that such widespread illegal activities could not be taking place without the backing or silence of the traditional authorities.
They revealed that despite multiple complaints and appeals to Awulae Angama Tuagyan II, he has failed to act and has maintained silence.
They further alleged that some chiefs have gone ahead to illegally install sawmills in forest reserves another act they believe shows the traditional leadership’s involvement in environmental degradation.
The youth recalled that it was Awulae Angama Tuagyan II who introduced a miner named Nana Okobeng to the Gwira communities several years ago.
However, when Nana Okobeng later joined the youth to advocate for responsible mining and an end to river mining, the Omanhene reportedly turned against him and began labeling him as an enemy.
This inconsistency, the youth argue, raises troubling questions. “If the Omanhene brought Nana Okobeng to the community, why is he now fighting him for promoting proper mining?” they asked.
They are now demanding that the government intervene immediately to stop all galamsey operations in the area, especially those happening dangerously close to schools.
They warn that the future of the community’s children is at risk if these activities are not brought to a halt.
The youth insist that for any real progress to be made in the fight against galamsey, the role of traditional authorities must be scrutinized.
“Our chiefs, led by Awulae Angama Tuagyan II, must be held accountable. Without their support or silence, this destruction would not be possible,” they concluded.
Story by Nana Fynn@W/R.
