Nsuokyire Residents Protest Illegal Mining Along Tano River, Burn Miners' Camps

Residents of Nsuokyire in the Aowin District of Ghana’s Western Region have taken matters into their own hands by confronting illegal miners operating along the Tano River. The angry community members, worried about the destruction of their environment and the potential for flooding and water contamination, have vowed not to allow mining activities along the river.

Nsuokyire Residents Protest Illegal Mining Along Tano River, Burn Miners' Camps

In a dramatic show of resistance, the residents set fire to the miners’ camps, demanding their immediate evacuation. This bold move follows growing frustration over the continued degradation of the Tano River and the lack of government intervention to address illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.

The protest was largely triggered by a viral video from Green Gold TV, which revealed how illegal miners have taken over the Tano Numre Forest and polluted the Tano River. The footage, widely shared on social media, has intensified public outrage over the unchecked destruction of forest reserves and vital water sources.

According to reports, Chinese miners have set up large-scale operations along the banks of the Tano River near Samereboi and other surrounding villages. Their activities have directly contaminated the water source, making it unsafe for consumption and agriculture.

Residents fear that if galamsey activities continue unchecked, their livelihoods and access to clean water will be permanently affected. Many rely on the Tano River for drinking water, farming, and fishing, making its pollution a serious environmental and public health crisis.

Despite multiple reports by JoyNews and other media outlets, there has been no significant intervention from the government or environmental agencies to stop the illegal mining. This has led to growing frustration among residents, who feel abandoned by the authorities.

A community leader speaking during the protest said:

"We have reported this issue several times, but nothing has been done. The government keeps promising action, but these miners continue to destroy our water sources. We have no choice but to defend our land ourselves."

 

 

Aside from water pollution, residents are deeply concerned about flooding risks. The destruction of vegetation and riverbanks due to mining weakens natural flood barriers, making communities more vulnerable to disasters. Galamsey operations often leave large pits filled with water, increasing the likelihood of landslides and erosion during heavy rains.

The Tano River is a major water body that serves several communities across Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Its pollution could have long-term environmental consequences, affecting not just Nsuokyire but millions of people who depend on it.

Environmental activists and local leaders are calling on the government, security agencies, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to take immediate action. They demand:

• Deployment of security forces to remove illegal miners.

• Strict enforcement of mining laws to prevent further destruction.

• Protection and restoration of polluted water bodies.

• Accountability for those financing illegal mining operations.

With illegal mining posing a direct threat to water security, agriculture, and biodiversity, many believe that only decisive government action can stop the destruction. However, until real intervention happens, local communities like Nsuokyire are taking a stand to protect their land, water, and future.