Residents of Sefwi Afere in the Bodi District of the Western North Region have firmly opposed illegal mining operations in their area, citing severe environmental damage and risks to their livelihoods.
The community Led by the Chief, Nana Yaw Nti II, opinion leaders, and concerned youth, the community has called on Nhyira Ba Mining Company Ltd to present valid and approved documents before carrying out any mining activity. The demand was made during a recent community dialogue session held in Afere.
Speaking to the media, Nana Yaw Nti II emphasized that no miner would be permitted to operate without authorization from the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and traditional authorities.
He explained that the company initially appeared in the community before the 2024 elections, claiming readiness to mine. When asked to provide their documentation, they failed to do so. However, they allegedly continued mining operations at night without notifying the local leadership.
“In 2025, the company admitted its documentation was incomplete and promised to finalize the process with the Minerals Commission before resuming operations. But they later returned to the site without informing us. When we followed up, we found they were already mining,” Nana Yaw Nti II stated.
He added that the community leaders intervened to stop the operation and have since given the company time to go through the proper legal channels. Despite this, he alleged that the company continues to mine secretly at night.
“They usually operate around 10 p.m. and stop by morning,” he revealed, calling on the relevant authorities to step in and take action.
Some residents also echoed the chief’s call, vowing to defend their environment and community resources until all mining companies follow the proper procedures.
