Traditional authorities and youth groups in Ahafo Nkaseim in the Ahafo Region have expressed deep concern over delays in the launching of a long-awaited Cooperative Mining project aimed at promoting responsible small-scale mining and curbing illegal mining activities in the area.

The project, initially scheduled for opening at the end of February, has yet to be inaugurated, sparking agitation among community members, particularly the youth, who had anticipated its swift rollout.

At a press conference on Monday, March 31, traditional and opinion leaders called on the government to expedite the launch of the process to enable full-scale operations.

Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, Nana Yentumi Boateng, Chief of Mampehia, acknowledged the efforts of President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for including Ahafo Nkaseim in the Responsible Cooperative Mining initiative.

However, he noted that the delay in officially opening the project was not helpful, given the high expectations of residents.

He stressed that the successful rollout of the initiative would serve as a key intervention to regulate small-scale mining and reduce illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

According to the chiefs, all necessary processes—including stakeholder consultations with traditional leaders, cooperative registration, and inspections—have been completed.

Despite this, the delay in issuing operational permits and formally inaugurating the project has stalled progress, increasing frustration among the youth. 

They warned that if care is not taken, they may consider returning to illegal mining activities.

The leaders fear that the prolonged delay could undermine efforts to promote responsible mining practices and reverse gains made in tackling illegal mining in the area.

They have therefore appealed to the President, the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry, the Responsible Cooperative Mining Secretariat, and the Minerals Commission to fast-track the remaining processes to ensure the project takes off without further delay.

The chiefs also expressed appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asutifi South, Collins Dauda, the Nkaseimhene, Nana Danso Agyei, the Ahafo Regional Minister, Mrs. Charity Gardiner, and the Council of State representative, for their continued support and engagement.