NO GALAMSEY ON OUR LAND — TUFUHENE OF JEMA VOWS

Date: 14th November 2025

The Tufuhene of Jema in the Aowin District of the Western South Region, Nana Samuel Armah, has issued a strong warning against illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, within his traditional area. He vowed never to tolerate or condone any form of illegal mining on his land, pledging his full commitment to protecting the environment and the livelihoods of his people.

Nana Armah made this declaration when he led a delegation from Jema to pay a courtesy call on the Management of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) at Cocoa House, Accra. The visit sought to explore collaborative measures to improve and sustain cocoa production in the area and included an appeal for the establishment of a Cocoa Station in Jema as well as enhancement of the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme to promote cocoa cultivation and support local farmers.

According to the chief, illegal mining has destroyed vast tracts of fertile land and polluted many rivers in almost all communities surrounding Jema, and across the country, leading to severe hardships and loss of livelihoods in the affected communities. He noted that these alarming developments have deepened his resolve to defend the natural environment within his traditional jurisdiction.

“We have seen the devastation galamsey brings to farmlands and water bodies around us, and in other parts of the country. I have made it my personal mission to ensure that Jema remains free from such destruction. We cannot allow greed to destroy the very land that sustains us,” Nana Armah declared.

He revealed that there is a strong community consensus against illegal mining in Jema. Any individual who tries to engage in such activities will face strict traditional sanctions as a deterrent to others.

“Our people have agreed that galamsey has no place here. Anyone who defies this agreement faces appropriate traditional punitive measures. Living in an environment free from illegal mining promotes peace, unity, and prosperity among residents,” he added.

The Tufuhene further urged traditional leaders, government authorities, and all Ghanaians to unite in the national fight against illegal mining. He emphasised that protecting farmlands and water resources is vital for sustainable livelihoods and the well-being of future generations.

Nana Armah expressed optimism that with the support of COCOBOD, the establishment of a Cocoa Station, regular supply of farm inputs, and expansion of the cocoa rehabilitation programme would revitalise cocoa production in Jema. He said such interventions would rekindle youth interest in cocoa farming and create alternative employment opportunities for the local population.

Receiving the delegation on behalf of COCOBOD Management, the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control (A&QC), Dr Francis Baah, commended the Tufuhene and his team for their firm stand against illegal mining. He lauded their proactive leadership in safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable cocoa production.

“Your commitment to protecting your land from galamsey is commendable. It is communities like yours that give hope to the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry,” Dr Baah stated.

He reaffirmed COCOBOD’s commitment to partnering with the Jema Traditional Council to improve cocoa productivity and enhance the livelihoods of farmers. Management, he said, has directed the Seed Production Division (SPD) and the Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) to collaborate closely with the chief and people of Jema to address their concerns and support ongoing development efforts in the area.

Members of the Tufuhene’s delegation included Hon. Gabriel Kingsly Kwaku Blay, Government Appointee; Madam Agnes Fandor, Women’s Leader; and Mr Nyanzu Asiedu, Chief Farmer.