The Operations Manager at the Savannah Research and Advocacy Network (SRAN), Albert Naa, has highlighted growing concerns over the state of mining activities in the Upper East Region, particularly in the Talensi area. He criticized both legal and illegal mining operations, drawing attention to the dangers posed by irresponsible practices that could cause more harm than the illicit miners often targeted by authorities.
Mr. Naa specifically referenced a tragic incident from 2019, when a mining company, Shaanxi—now Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited—conducted a blast that resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals. According to him, this catastrophic event was an unprecedented disaster for the region, which had never before witnessed such a mining-related tragedy.
“Those who purport to have the legal sway to mine can even do more harm than the illegal miners we have been chasing. One case in point is when Chanzee blasted and killed 16 people in 2019. Has there ever been such a disaster in mining in Talensi? I could even extend it to the region, where there has never been such a nightmare.”
He pointed out several lapses in the mining company’s operations, including its failure to properly document the blasting materials used in the incident—a breach of the rule requiring all items brought onto a mining site to be logged. Additionally, there was no prior notification or warning given to the local community before the blast took place, a serious oversight in safety procedures. Albert Naa criticized the mining company for its repeated negligent practices, including trespassing on other people’s concessions.
“That is irresponsible mining at its highest. There have been many irresponsible mining activities by that company in Talensi, including trespassing on people’s concessions.”
He expressed frustration over the lack of accountability from those responsible for overseeing these operations, suggesting that underhanded deals might be enabling such behavior to continue unchecked.
“It is just a blatant refusal to act or a deliberate decision to ignore and allow things to happen because some underhand dealings have taken place. Apart from that, how else would you explain this situation?”
He emphasized the importance of community awareness and advocacy in curbing such irresponsible mining activities. He noted that the work of advocacy groups, which bring these issues to public attention, often forces mining companies to operate with greater caution, knowing they are being closely monitored.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | GIfty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
