Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has appealed to chiefs in Dormaa and other traditional areas not to approach him or security authorities to plead for the release of illegal miners when they are arrested.

He warned that such actions undermine the fight against the galamsey menace, which he described as escalating in the region. Illegal mining is said to be taking place in Amasu, Aboabo, Akwamu, Wamfie, and Kyeremansu within the Dormaa Traditional Area.

The Minister recently led a joint task force to Banda, where 31 illegal miners were arrested. The team seized 11 excavators, 16 motorbikes, 10 tricycles, several “changfang” machines, and gallons of fuel.

Over 150 makeshift structures used as shelters for miners and their families were also destroyed.

Mr. Akwaboa said the focus will now shift to the Dormaa enclave. He assured chiefs of his determination to end the menace, which is destroying forests, farmlands, and water bodies, with dire consequences for livelihoods, health, and the well-being of the people.

“I will not be a minister and allow galamsey to continue in Dormaa and the region,” he declared. “But my appeal to you (chiefs) is that you should not put on your traditional clothes and come begging when illegal miners are arrested.”

He, however, assured the chiefs that measures are being put in place to create sustainable jobs for the youth, thereby moving them away from illegal mining.

According to him, he will not tolerate any further destruction in the region and will require the support of all stakeholders, especially traditional leaders.

The Minister made these remarks at a durbar of chiefs and people of Dormaa as part of his familiarisation visit to the Dormaa Municipal Assembly.

He also expressed concern over growing chieftaincy disputes in the region, which he said are obstructing development.

Recent tensions have flared in Sampa, Sunyani, Wenchi, Badu, Berekum, Drobo, Fiapre, and Japekrom.

“Due to the selfish interest of some individuals, chieftaincy tensions keep escalating,” he noted, adding that he will use the law to deal with anyone or groups fanning such conflicts.

Dormaa Twafohene, Barimah Twumasi Bekoe, speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief of Dormaa, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, reminded government of a promise made by the late President John Evans Atta Mills to build a university in Dormaa.

He said 2,000 acres of land had been released for the project and appealed to President John Mahama to fulfil that pledge.

The chief also called for compensation for farmers and landowners who lost their lands for the university project.

Regarding challenges in the poultry industry, he urged the government to provide support to revamp the sector and create more jobs for the youth.

He further appealed for improved infrastructure in health, education, and road construction to facilitate transport and the movement of farm produce.