A heated exchange has erupted on social media between award-winning environmental journalist Erastus Asare Donkor and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, over reports of illegal mining (galamsey) in parts of the Atwima Mponua District.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Erastus Asare Donkor described what he called “a sad scene” at Ntoboroso in Nyinahin, where he alleged that mining activities were taking place in the Ofin River.
“It’s a sad scene!! At Ntoboroso in Nyinahin within Atwima Mponua District, mining in the Ofin River right now,” he wrote, adding that his informant had tried to prevent the illegal activity.
Responding to the post, Dr. Amoakohene said he had followed up on the matter with the Forestry Commission, which, according to him, had not received any formal report on the alleged incident.
“Thanks for the news. I did a quick follow-up Forestry Commission has the task to watch and prevent these invasions and escalate same for assistance if they are not able to handle the situation. I just called the Forestry Commissioner and no such report has come to his attention,” the Minister replied.
He further urged Erustus Asare Donkor to provide details of the informant or encourage them to report to the nearest forestry office or police station for prompt action.
However, Erastus, who is known for his extensive reporting on illegal mining and its environmental impact, expressed disappointment at the Minister’s response.
“As the regional minister I did not expect the response you gave. You know galamsey is pervasive there. All you have to do is call your DCE there. Take charge of the region,” the journalist fired back.
The exchange has since drawn significant public attention, with many commenters on social media calling for immediate government intervention to stop the alleged mining in the Ofin River.
Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, remains one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental issues, with severe implications for water bodies, forests, and livelihoods in mining communities.
Neither the Forestry Commission nor the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has yet issued an official statement on the alleged incident at Ntoboroso.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
