NAELP’S National Land Reclamation Kicks Off In Atiwa West And Abuakwa South Districts

The National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP) under the auspices of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has rolled-out the first phase of land reclamation of mined out sites in some selected areas in the Atiwa West and Abuakwa South Municipalities in the Eastern Region.

At Abuakwa South Municipality, the Eastern Regional Minister, Honourable Seth Kwame Acheampong said collaborative efforts of all the various stakeholders is paramount to the success of government’s reclamation of degraded lands, adding that as much as mine resources are exploited, it must be done the right way.

He hoped that government’s land reclamation efforts will be embraced and sustained by all, so as to serve its intended purpose.

At a community engagement and sensitization workshop organized for traditional authorities and some key stakeholders on Wednesday, 29th June, 2022, the coordinator for NAELP, Dr. Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor used the platform to sensitize Miners present to get Mining licence, indicating that it is an assertion of government’s dedication to endorse responsible small-scale mining which will also serve as guarantee to cover up pits left after mining.

She added that the President Akufo-Addo led government is committed to ensure a sustainable and responsible small-scale mining activities to compliment the efforts to restore and reclaim degraded lands.

At Atiwa West, The District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Seth Asante(Esq) in his welcome remark said the workshop is not only to sensitize the stakeholders but also to solicit their views as the reclamation project begins.

Hon. Asante (Esq) stressed that “illegal mining has destroyed our lands and the Birim River so the reclamation project will bring a sigh of relief to the people in the district”.

He disclosed that government has fast tracked the launch of community mining, happening in the month of July in the districts which will correct illegal mining.

Representatives from Nathawo Properties & Savannah Grande Limited, Contractors of the reclamation project courted for support from the various key stakeholders.

He also assured the people in both communities have pledged their inclusion and support for services as work begins.

He also revealed that work on selected sites will commence in 1st and 2nd week in July, 2022.

An overview of the earth work processes and methodology to be used in reclaiming degraded lands was detailed by Mr. Evan Yarquah, a geo-scientist and also a member of the reclamation project on site.

Also present at the workshop was the Representatives of the Paramount Chief of Akyem Abuakwa traditional area, His Majesty Osagyefo Nana Amoatia Ofori Panin II, Queen mother of Akyem Abomosu, Nana Konadu Kontie II and the Municipal Chief Executive of Abuakwa South,Honourable Akosua Asabea Annor