MCE Advocates for Community Involvement to Combat Illegal Mining in Atwima Nwabiagya

Atwima Nwabiagya: Mr Michael Amoah Awuku, the Chief Executive of Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality Assembly, has proposed the establishment of Community Watchdog Committees to curb illegal mining activities in the region. During a mini durbar at Toase, he emphasized the potential of community members in identifying and reporting illegal mining operations, thereby assisting security agencies in their efforts to protect the environment and natural resources. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Awuku highlighted the limitations of security agencies, noting that while soldiers and other personnel could manage to curtail illegal mining during the day, their efforts were undermined at night when these operations often escalate. He stressed the effectiveness of community involvement in these situations. The durbar also served as an occasion to inaugurate a new block of 26 lockable stores, which was constructed at a cost of GHC 999,527.00. This project, funded through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) and the Response Factor Grant (RFG), aims to boost economic activities and enhance the livelihoods of local residents. Furthermore, Mr Awuku commissioned a 30-bed maternity ward at the Asakraka Health Centre, which was built at a cost of GHC 316,000.00. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the assembly to improve health and maternal care services in the community, funded by the assembly's share of the common fund. During the event, Nana Yim Awere Ababio, the chief of Toase, expressed gratitude for the new projects and recognized their significance in justifying the community's support in local elections. Mr Awuku used this opportunity to outline the government's achievements in various sectors including health, education, and infrastructure, advocating for continued support to complete ongoing projects. Madam Shirley Tiwaa Kyei, the NPP Parliamentary Candidate, alongside Nana Aboagye Asare, Hiawu Beseasehene, also spoke at the event, urging the community to support their political endeavors for furth er development, and calling for the completion of road construction works in the area.