Tensions have reached a breaking point in the Western Region as residents of Salman and four neighboring communities in the Nzema East District issue a formal petition to President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
The petition demands an urgent probe into illegal mining activities allegedly taking place on concessions held by Adamus Resources Limited.
Breaking Point:
Salman, located within the Ellembelle District, has long coexisted with the Nzema Gold Project.
While large-scale mining is governed strictly by the Ghana Mining Act, the community is currently reeling from the “Galamsey” crisis.
Despite the administration’s public “War on Galamsey,” locals argue that a double standard has emerged where local youth are sidelined while influential figures operate without consequence.
Allegations of Corporate Complicity:
The current unrest follows an operation by the Essiama District Police, sanctioned by DCE Joseph Agyekum, which resulted in the arrest of five illegal miners.
However, the situation took a controversial turn when police reports suggested that security personnel from Adamus Resources admitted to a connection with the unauthorized operators.
The residents highlight a glaring disparity:
Barrier:
Local youth attempting to establish legal, regulated mining cooperatives are reportedly met with military force and denied leases.
Loophole:
Unlicensed groups are allegedly operating on the same lands with the quiet approval of corporate security.
The “Presidential” Connection:
The petition centers on a high-profile allegation involving Alfred Mahama, the President’s brother.
Residents claim he is acting as a middleman between Adamus Resources and illegal operators at four specific sites.
This has led to a direct challenge to the Jubilee House: is the President’s family undermining his own environmental policies?
“The youth of Salman are calling on President Mahama to ‘call his brother to order,’ fearing that political influence is being used to bypass the Mining Act.”
Environmental and Economic Collapse
The fallout of these illegal operations is not just political—it is an ecological disaster. The Subile and Broma rivers, essential to the survival of these villages, have been devastated.
Impact Category Consequences
Water Security Primary drinking sources are now heavily silted and chemically contaminated.
Food Security Local fishing, a vital protein source for the Nzema people, has effectively collapsed.
One-Week Ultimatum:
Addressing Minister Armah-Kofi Buah who also serves as the local MP, the community has laid out three non-negotiable demands:
Legal Clarity:
Immediate transparency regarding concession leasing.
Cessation of Activity:
An instant halt to all mining on the disputed land.
Formal Inquiry:
A full investigation into the management of Adamus Resources.
The youth of Salman have issued a one-week ultimatum.
They warn that if the government and the mining firm fail to provide a transparent resolution, the community will be forced to take matters into their own hands to secure the land.
Story By Michael Ofosu-Afriyie,
Ellembelle
