Illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, is a subject matter that has been discussed widely in the view of immediate and long-term effects on the environment, agriculture, habitat and livelihood as a whole in Ghana. One area in which the galamsey impact is being felt most is the pollution of rivers and water bodies. In attempt to protect the rivers and water bodies, government placed a ban on galamsey.
To provide alternative livelihood to illegal small-scale miners, government has set up a project by providing illegal small-scale miners opportunities in the agric sector.
This season, as part of the government project, six hundred thousand oil palm seedlings are to be supplied to farmers for planting in three zones of the Eastern Region noted for illegal mining activities. The zones are Akwatia, Awhenease and New Abirem.
Mr Steven Agbo, the Principal Community Relations Officer of the Minerals Commission, explained that the aim of the project is to assist mining communities to improve their livelihoods.
He said apart from providing the farmers with seedlings, they would also receive wire mesh to protect the seedlings from being destroyed by rodents.
According to him, each registered farmer would be given GH¢150.00 for land clearance and GH¢115.00 for maintenance for each acre of land cultivated in a year. In addition, fertilizers and agricultural extension services would be provided to the farmers.
The Akwatiahene, Osabarima Kofi Boateng III, told the farmers to take this life-time opportunity serious to improve upon their lives and the communities as a whole.
So far about 100 farmers have registered in the Akwatia Zone.
