News
Konongo residents demand action against illegal mining affecting water bodies
A crisis is unfolding in Konongo, in the Ashanti region, where active mining operations have taken over the town, threatening to destroy a major water source and sparking outrage among residents.
The mining activities, located on the main Kumasi-Accra highway, are polluting the Owere River, which supplies water to communities in Konongo and surrounding areas.
Excavators and mining equipment are actively being used, mere meters away from homes, churches, and businesses.
The Head Pastor of the New Life Church of Light expressed anger and concern over the development, highlighting the devastating impact on the community.
Environmental Protection Agency and Minerals Commission officials claim they were only informed about a dredging exercise by the Asante Akim Central Assembly, but were unaware of the mining activities.
Residents are frustrated, citing the continuous destruction of water bodies and farmlands due to illegal mining.
The area has been blocked to conceal the extent of the destruction from highway travellers.
A portion of the highway, near the mining site, is caving in and has yet to be repaired despite years of appeals.
The situation has raised serious concerns about the government’s ability to regulate mining activities and protect the environment.
Residents who spoke to Citi News are demanding immediate action to halt the mining and restore their water source.
Source: Citinewsroom.com
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
