The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwahu South Assembly in the Eastern Region, Mr. Emmanuel Atta Ofori (Senior) says contrary to media reports, he is not involved in illegal mining activities at Wirenkyikrom and Fomenso, all farming communities in the municipality.
According to the MCE, he received a letter dated Friday March 3, 2023 which was signed by the Odikro of Fomenso, Unit Committee Chairman and Obo Esubohene, Nana Boakye, Justice Asubonteng and Nana Owusu Asiamah respectively.
The said letter reads: “The chiefs and elders and entire community of Kwahu Fomenso wish to express their willingness and acceptance of Soon Mining Company to enable them to mine in the community.
“It has been agreed that the social responsibilities of the company is to build a chip compound and also to support the Municipal Assembly (M/A) primary school with building materials and also agreed to support the community with other important needs”.
The three individuals representing the community further mentioned that both parties have agreed that the company provide all necessary documents relevant to the mining activity before commencement of work.
In a telephone interview with the paper, Mr. Emmanuel Atta Ofori (senior) disclosed that upon receipt of the letter, he went to the community on Tuesday March 7, 2023 to confirm its authenticity or otherwise.
He continued that, the three confirmed their consent to the letter and took him to the site the mining company intended to mine. According to the DCE, he directed them (the representatives) to bring the management of the mining company to his office with their necessary documents for further discussion.
According to the MCE, he was surprised when he read media report that he was involved in galamsey.
When The Chronicle contacted the Minerals Commission’s regional office in Koforidua, a source confirmed that indeed Soon Mining Company has a concession within the Kwahu South municipality.
The source could not, however, confirm whether the company has any concession within the two communities mentioned above.
