‘Our Livelihoods Are at Risk’ – Akyem Nsutam Farmers Cry for Help as Galamsey Devastates Farmlands

In Akyem Nsutam, a community in Ghana’s Eastern Region, approximately 100 farmers are facing severe challenges due to the destructive impact of illegal mining activities on their farmlands and water sources. These farmers recently voiced their concerns to Radio1 News, highlighting the dire consequences of unregulated mining in the area.

The farmers reported that illegal miners have diverted rivers, leading to dry of water bodies affecting large acres of vegetable farms. This has not only destroyed their crops but also jeopardized their livelihoods, as many had secured loans from rural banks to finance their farming activities. The loss of their produce has left them in a precarious financial situation, with fears of defaulting on loan repayments.

Some farmers of Nsutam, expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the flooding has wreaked havoc on many vegetable farmers. They called on the Fanteakwa South District Assembly and Arocha Ghana to take immediate action against illegal mining activities, particularly those occurring along the Birim River.

This incident is part of a broader issue affecting various regions in Ghana, where illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ poses significant threats to agriculture and water resources. The unregulated extraction of minerals has led to environmental degradation, including the contamination of water bodies and the destruction of arable land, thereby threatening the livelihoods of many communities.

The affected farmers are urging local authorities and the government to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining and implement measures to restore their lands and water sources. They emphasize that without prompt and decisive action, their means of sustenance and the future of agriculture in the region remain at grave risk.

Source: Radiooneghana.com