The people of the Bompata Traditional Area have expressed a strong opposition to any form of mining activities on their lands.
The community’s opposition is based on concerns about the environmental, social, economic, and health impacts of mining activities.
After a protest, the community members stated their total rejection of plans by BB Brothers Limited to commence mining operations in the area.
Spokesperson Joseph Baah said, “It has come to our attention that BB Brothers Limited, Accra, together with certain individuals, is making efforts to commence mining operations in the Bompata Traditional Area.”
He added, “We wish to state, in no uncertain terms, that the people of Bompata completely reject and oppose any such plans.”
In protest, members of the community clad in black and red hit the streets of Bompata to register their displeasure on Monday, November 3.
In prospecting for gold, BB Brothers Limited has dug out soil in some farms, causing destruction to the environment.
According to the community, the digging was done on the blind side of the farmers.
Illegal mining continues to wreak havoc in some communities in the country.
According to the petition of the community, many communities have suffered irreversible damage to the environment and human health; hence, their displeasure.
The group insists on using all legal means to halt any attempts to mine in the area.
Mr. Baah insisted, “We, the people of Bompata, therefore make it abundantly clear that we will not permit any form of mining activity, whether by BB Brothers Limited or any other entity, to take place on our land.”
He added, “we are determined to use every lawful and peaceful means to protect our environment, water bodies, farmlands, and the wellbeing of our people.”
Investigations have revealed that the concession, early this year, was secured by the BB Brothers Limited, who are presently prospecting the area for gold.
About nine communities in the Asankare South enclave will be affected by the mining activities.
Spokesperson for the company, Eric Ampomah, says the holes dug in farms without the permission of farmers as part of prospecting for gold is regrettable.
“We apologize to all the farmers who were affected. We have covered all the holes dug in the farms. It wasn’t our intention to damage their farms.”
Meanwhile, the mining company has insisted on adhering to all environmentally responsible means of mining.
They say a plan to maintain a conducive environment is already documented.
“We are bent on ensuing the mining is done in an environmentally friendly manner. The owners are from the community and they will want to keep the environment,” he added.
But the community insists, despite the documentation, all legal means will be used to prevent mining in the area.
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