The District Chief Executive for Atiwa East, Ernest Owusu Ntim, has revealed the intense pressure, risks, and challenges local authorities face in the fight against illegal mining, stressing the need for stronger support for districts at the frontline of the crisis.
Speaking at a policy dialogue on mining governance in Accra, Mr. Owusu Ntim described leadership in mining-affected districts as a difficult and sometimes dangerous responsibility, where efforts to enforce order are often met with resistance.
He noted that taking decisive action in the sector involves dealing with complex issues, including livelihoods, competing interests, and in some cases, powerful actors.
According to him, district leaders who attempt to introduce new systems or reforms often face criticism, accusations, and even threats to their personal safety.
Mr. Owusu Ntim disclosed that security concerns have become a reality for some local officials, as efforts to regulate mining activities can provoke backlash from affected groups.
Despite these challenges, he said there are signs of hope at the community level, where residents are increasingly showing support for efforts aimed at restoring order and protecting natural resources.
He explained that many communities are now more aware of the long-term impact of mining and are willing to cooperate with authorities to safeguard their land, water bodies, and livelihoods.
However, the DCE pointed out that a major gap remains in the daily monitoring and enforcement of mining activities. He observed that conditions on the ground change rapidly, and without continuous local oversight, illegal operations often resume shortly after enforcement actions are carried out.
He stressed that enforcement efforts have largely been reactive rather than preventive, making it difficult to sustain progress.
Mr. Owusu Ntim further indicated that although District Assemblies are closest to the problem, they are often not adequately empowered to manage it effectively. He cited unclear authority, limited resources, and weak coordination with national institutions as key constraints.
He emphasized that while districts are expected to take responsibility for managing mining-related challenges, the current system does not fully support sustained local governance.
The Atiwa East DCE therefore called for practical reforms that would provide District Assemblies with clearer mandates, stronger coordination mechanisms, and the necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities.
He added that the situation in Atiwa East reflects a broader national reality, as many districts across Ghana are facing similar challenges in managing mining activities.
Mr. Owusu Ntim expressed hope that ongoing discussions would lead to more effective and sustainable solutions, noting that current efforts at the district level, though imperfect, represent a genuine attempt to respond to the crisis under difficult conditions.
