“We Might All Die and Leave Ghana Behind if Galamsey Persists” — Asantehene Warns at Obuasi Reclamation Launch

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has warned that Ghana could be left in ruins, and its people might die and leave the country behind if illegal mining continues to destroy the nation’s water bodies. “Unless galamsey stops, Ghanaians risk leaving behind a country no one can inherit,” he stated.

Otumfuo spoke at the launch of the Jimi Land Reclamation and River Watercourse Rehabilitation Project in Obuasi on October 14, 2026. The project, conceived by the Ashanti Green Initiative, was launched with the ceremonial planting of a Ceiba seedling by the Asantehene. It aims to reclaim 670 square kilometres of degraded land and water in the Jimi enclave.

Otumfuo was joined by Nananom; the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah; the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga; and the Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, Samuel Pobee.

Severity
The Asantehene noted that pollution from mercury and heavy metals threatens primary water sources across the region, and said the severity of the crisis prompted him to inspect the degraded sites himself. “I decided to come for a firsthand view, and the Ministers decided to accompany me,” he said.

Unemployment no excuse
While acknowledging the high rate of youth unemployment, Otumfuo rejected joblessness as an excuse for destroying water bodies. “I understand young people don’t have work, but that can’t be an excuse for the destruction of our water bodies,” he said. “If we destroy our water, what will become of us?”

Assurance
Recognising that lasting solutions require economic alternatives, the Asantehene reassured young people and pledged to engage both the central government and Nananom to develop structured, sustainable job initiatives that provide livelihoods without compromising the environment.