Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa East District, has engaged the chiefs, queen mothers, and residents of Abekoase as part of ongoing efforts to promote responsible mining, environmental protection, and community development. The engagement, held through a collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), CHRAJ, Information Services Department (ISD), and the Ghana Education Service (GES), provided a platform to strengthen community awareness and implement local development policies.
In his address, Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim highlighted the District Assembly’s 24-hour economy policy as a key strategy to stimulate local economic activity while ensuring sustainable resource management. He emphasized the reclamation of abandoned and active mining sites for developmental projects such as roads, schools, and community facilities.
The DCE also outlined the “modular operandi” being implemented to safeguard water bodies from destructive mining practices by the Blue Water Guard who work closely with the National joint security taskforce, and stressing that, strict monitoring and enforcement measures will be applied to all mining activities in the district. “Our priority is to protect our environment while ensuring that mining contributes meaningfully to community development,” he said.
Surprising, one of the highlights hammered by the DCE is Abekoase being the center hub for prostitution. According to GHS statistical reports, out of 5 residences, 3 out of the 5 have AIDS. He promise to constantly engage GHS on this matter and how prostitution can be eradicated from the community.
Other intervention measures shared during the meeting included initiatives to improve road infrastructure, provide scholarships to deserving students, and ensure that the benefits of the Community Mining Levy are equitably shared among residents. Hon. Owusu Ntim reaffirmed that recalcitrant miners who violate agreements or endanger water bodies and farmlands would face strict enforcement, with the involvement of relevant security agencies where necessary.
The event, coordinated by the NCCE served as a platform for direct community feedback and witnessed reaffirmation of the District Assembly’s commitment to inclusive development. Residents expressed appreciation for the proactive engagement, pledging to collaborate with the Assembly to ensure responsible mining practices and sustainable use of local resources.
This initiative demonstrates the Atiwa East District Assembly’s dedication to leveraging partnerships with government agencies and civic education programs to foster development, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic growth across the district.
