By AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi mine, in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency, has planted over 2,000 trees to commemorate the 2024 World Environment Day.
This tree planting initiative is part of a broader effort by the mining company to rejuvenate greenery in the mining community.
Obuasi, a prominent gold mining hub in Ghana, faces challenges from illegal artisanal mining activities that are causing significant deforestation.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a warning about the potential shortage of agricultural produce if the destruction of Ghana’s forest cover continues without immediate action to protect the reserves.
Already, some indigenous crops like water yam (Kooko) and sugarcane are on the brink of extinction due to human activities such as “galamsey,” improper use of agrochemicals, and other agricultural practices.
Prempeh Adarkwa Yiadom, Head of the EPA in Obuasi, disclosed that the indiscriminate use of agrochemicals is poisoning arable lands, contaminating water bodies, and posing significant risks to public health.
“It is high time we embraced eco-friendly farming techniques that nurture the soil, safeguard our waters, and nourish water resources. Collaborative efforts are needed where we strive to be stewards of the land, sowing seeds of sustainability for a bountiful and healthier tomorrow,” he said.
AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi mine organized a range of activities, including quiz and debate competitions among 10 senior high schools, and conducted radio programs highlighting the importance of environmental protection.
According to George Owusu Ansah, Senior Manager of Environment at AngloGold Ashanti, the tree planting exercise held on the campus of Christ the King Catholic School in Obuasi aimed to restore and preserve the land.
“This act will also symbolize planting seeds of hope and resilience for generations to come. Each tree we plant, each acre of land we reclaim, is a testament to our commitment to healing the earth and creating a more sustainable future”, he said.
Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency, clergy members, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), students, and traditional authorities all participated in the tree planting exercise.
AngloGold Ashanti is dedicated to environmental conservation, demonstrated by its successful reclamation of a non-operational 30-year-old Boete Tailings footprint.
Furthermore, the company is prepared to release approximately 123 hectares of land for community settlement and industrial site development.
“The Boete lands, once affected by mining operations, now boasts of demarcated plots with electricity and water supply infrastructure, and to be integrated into the Obuasi Community and Economic development.
“By reclaiming and restoring lands no longer in use for mining, the company have not only mitigated its environmental impact but also paved the way for sustainable development and a brighter future for Obuasi and its environs,” Mr. Owusu Ansah said.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive of the Obuasi East District, Faustina Amissah emphasized that the most effective means to combat desertification and drought is to enhance public education and raise awareness about the consequences of environmental pollution.
