Akim Oda MP Raises Alarm Over Galamsey Near Birim River, Calls For Stronger Local Action

Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, *Alexander Akwasi Acquah*, is calling for stronger community and local involvement to fight illegal mining in the Birim Central Municipality, warning that the *Birim River* is under serious threat.

The MP made the call during a tour of mining sites behind the Sawmill Birim Bridge, where he observed extensive galamsey activity, large uncovered pits, and degraded land very close to the Birim River.

Speaking to the media on site, Mr. Acquah described the level of destruction as alarming. He said many people doubted the scale of galamsey in Akim Oda until they saw it first-hand.

“*Look at the distance between these pits and the Birim River... that is exactly what they are doing, washing whatever comes from here into the Birim River. Think about the level of chemicals they are putting into the pit, think about the level of chemicals they are putting into the water*,” he said.

He noted that the Birim River is one of the main sources of drinking water, and the pollution poses a direct danger to residents.

“The ordinary person who is not going to benefit from this galamsey is dependent on this water. What can you farm here? How can you farm on this land that is so devastated?” he asked.

Mr. Acquah said while some arrests may have been made, mining activities appear to still be ongoing, with signs of excavators and footpaths showing night operations.

“We came and didn’t meet anybody, but if you look at the signs around, the footpath of the excavator... people are working here in the night,” he added.

The MP urged the clergy, civil society, and community leaders to join the conversation, saying the fight cannot be left to authorities alone. He also pushed back against claims that exposing the damage is “destroying the image of Akim Oda.”

“I who is bringing this into the limelight have been described as a saboteur. What is the use of me being elected as MP if I don’t speak for the people?”

The MP said authorities must act swiftly to arrest the situation, protect the Birim River, and provide alternative livelihoods for youth who see galamsey as their only source of income.