Akroma Gold Mining Company, located at Kwawu Esaase in the Kwawu West Municipality of the Eastern Region, is facing severe challenges due to the destructive impact of illegal mining activities, which are crippling its operations and threatening its survival.
According to the company’s Community Relations Officer, Enock Agblor, more than 300 workers have abandoned their jobs to engage in illegal mining in pursuit of quick profits. This exodus has created a shortage of skilled labour, drastically reducing production levels.
Mr. Agblor further revealed that illegal miners have encroached on the company’s concessions, digging deep pits that disrupt operations. The situation, he added, has caused deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation—endangering biodiversity and exposing nearby communities to toxic chemicals with serious health risks.
The company has also been confronted with hostility from some local youth. A recent protest escalated into the kidnapping of staff and a raid on the company’s office, resulting in losses estimated at one million Ghana cedis.
Appealing for calm, Mr. Agblor urged community members, particularly the youth, to exercise restraint during demonstrations and follow lawful procedures when addressing grievances.
He called on government to intensify efforts to curb illegal mining by strengthening regulations, improving enforcement, and promoting responsible mining practices.
He stressed that tackling the menace is essential not only for the survival of Akroma Gold but also for protecting the environment and the livelihoods of affected communities.
Source: Akwasi Dwamena
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