The youth of Nyamebekyere, Asuoko, and Mpasaaso No.2 in the Ahafo Ano South-West District have strongly dismissed allegations of renewed illegal mining activities in their communities. Their response follows a JoyNews report published on November 23, 2025, by correspondent Erastus Asare Donkor.
The JoyNews report cited the Akwamuhene of Mpasaaso No.2, Nana Agyei Mensah, who appealed to President John Dramani Mahama over what he described as severe destruction of forest reserves and family lands by illegal miners. He claimed that despite petitions to the Ghana Police Service, the Regional Liaison Office, the Minerals Development Fund, and the District Chief Executive, “no meaningful response” had been received.
However, the youth of the affected communities say the allegations are baseless and represent an attempt to tarnish the reputation of Mpasaaso No.2.
Addressing a press conference, youth leader Kwadwo Asare labelled the JoyNews report as “completely inaccurate.”
“The report is misleading and doesn’t have any iota of truth in it,” he insisted.
According to him, illegal mining activities indeed existed in the area years ago, but those operations took place under the tenure of the former chief, Nana Ampofo Twumasi—who he alleged collaborated with the current Akwamuhene.
“There was illegal mining when the former chief was here, and he connived with this same Akwamuhene to sell several lands to illegal miners,” he stated. “Asantehene, in his wisdom, destooled the chief, and we the youth rose up and drove these miners out of the forest.”
He stressed that no illegal mining activities are currently taking place in the community.
Kwadwo Asare added that the youth are now ensuring that previously affected areas are being restored.
“We are forcing those who mined here in the past to reclaim the destroyed lands so they return to their natural state. The work is gradually ongoing,” he said.
He further suggested that the Akwamuhene’s recent complaints may stem from personal motives rather than genuine concern for the environment.
“Because there is no money coming to him, he wants to soil the name of Mpasaaso. But we the youth won’t sit aloof for him to do that,” he cautioned.
Calling for an independent assessment, he urged key authorities to visit the community and verify the facts for themselves.
“The Regional Security Coordinator, Captain Jabari; the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene; and the DCE, Hon. Saddik Abubakar, should come for inspection to witness what I’m saying,” he appealed.
He also issued a stern warning to the Akwamuhene to desist from peddling misinformation.
“During his leadership with the former chief, the town lost its glory, and we the youth are working hard to restore it,” he said.
Supporting the youth’s claims, the Assemblyman for Mpasaaso No.2, Hon. Charles K. Asare, criticized the leadership of the Akwamuhene and the Queen Mother, Nana Amoakowaa Gyampah.
“Since Asantehene entrusted the community to their care, the progress of the town has taken a nose dive due to poor decision-making,” he lamented.
The youth reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the integrity and image of Mpasaaso No.2 and called on media outlets to ensure fairness, accuracy, and due diligence in their reporting.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku