The Talensi Traditional Council has banned all mining activities in the Talensi Traditional Area unless those involved have written consent from the Council and valid licences from Ghana’s Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Authority.
The Council announced the ban following a rise in unauthorized mining activities, often by groups known locally as galamsey. These miners have encroached on farmlands, sacred sites, water bodies, and community lands without the Council’s approval. The traditional leadership expressed concern about damage to water sources, destruction of economic trees, pollution, and risks to public health and safety.
“The Council supports responsible, legal and environmentally sustainable mining that creates jobs for the youth of Talensi and contributes to the development of the Traditional Area,” the statement said. But it warned that any person violating the ban would be reported to law enforcement and could face customary sanctions imposed by the Traditional Council.
Unauthorized miners have been operating without supervision, disregarding customary procedures and bypassing the authority of chiefs and Tindanas, the traditional land custodians. This has led to conflicts and insecurity within the Talensi area.
The Council resolved to enforce compulsory customary consent for mining operations and to protect sacred and environmentally sensitive areas. It plans to work with state agencies and establish a community monitoring committee to oversee compliance.
The resolution was signed by Tongraan Kugbilsong Nalegbegtang, the President of the Traditional Council, along with divisional chiefs, Tindanas, and queen mothers from the three zones of the Traditional Area. They called on all residents, citizens, and investors to respect the directive in the interest of peace, security, and sustainable development.
Talensi’s move follows growing concerns across Ghana about the environmental and social impact of illegal mining. The Council’s action aims to protect the area’s natural resources and maintain order by ensuring mining happens only under legal and customary frameworks.
According to 3News.
