The looming threat to our forests and water bodies, primarily due to illegal mining and other agricultural and exploration activities, is rapidly depleting our precious reserves and jeopardizing our sources of drinking water.
Daryl Bossu, the Deputy National Director for Arocha Ghana, highlighted these concerns on the Adeyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3FM hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. Bossu urgently called for attention to preserve and protect the primary sources of the country’s water, particularly as 20% of bauxite deposits in the Atiwa forest face potential destruction following the President’s approval for Bauxite mining.
The Eastern Region, he emphasized, is a vital hub for water bodies, rainforests, and medicinal plants. The potential impact on these resources due to mining activities in the Atiwa forest raises serious environmental and ecological concerns.
In response to these concerns, President Akufo-Addo affirmed Ghana’s commitment to refining mined bauxite for alumina production. He announced the imminent end to the era of exporting raw bauxite, citing the transformative process underway. Speaking at an event marking Ghana’s 67th Independence Day in Koforidua, the President expressed optimism that this initiative would significantly contribute to Ghanaian industrialization.
The President acknowledged the prolonged journey to reach this stage but assured that efforts were made to ensure the right procedures were in place. He outlined the potential benefits, including the production of alumina for VALCO and the downstream aluminum industry, contributing to the manufacturing of motor vehicle parts, aircraft components, roofing sheets, and household utensils.
Addressing concerns about the Atewa Forest Range in Kyebi, President Akufo-Addo assured that once litigation is resolved, the forest would be developed to create employment opportunities, particularly in the Kyebi bauxite mine and refinery. This, he promised, would promote integration and value addition across the bauxite/aluminum value chain.
The intersection of environmental conservation, industrialization, and economic development remains a complex challenge, requiring careful consideration of the ecological impact and sustainable development strategies.
AYM Kukah:E:mail:kukahalexnder7@gmail.com
