On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Baffour K.S. Sikabede, the Chief of Akyem Essase (Apaapam) in the Eastern Region, declared that no illegal mining operation would be allowed to operate within his traditional area under his leadership.
Speaking as the keynote speaker at the Fourth Annual Colloquium organised by the Department of Political Science Education at the University of Education, Winneba, the chief renewed his pledge made at his installation: “No illegal mining operation will find comfort on the lands of Akyem Essase while I hold this stool.”
He warned traditional leaders against sacrificing their communities’ natural resources for financial benefits from mining activities, urging them to “set our own house in order first” and not trade “our children’s rivers for a portion of royalties.”
Chief Sikabede highlighted the role of chiefs as custodians of land and environmental regulators, noting that customary rules and taboos have historically protected forests, rivers and other resources by linking spiritual authority with environmental discipline.
He called on the government and its agencies to consult and adequately resource traditional authorities before granting mining concessions on stool lands, stressing that engagement must occur before concessions are approved and damage is inflicted.
Questioning whether Ghana would recognise traditional authorities as partners in environmental enforcement, the chief said the country already has sufficient legislation on mining, forestry and water resources but lacks the courage to enforce those laws impartially.
He urged the government to demonstrate the political will required to enforce environmental laws, irrespective of the social status, location or political connections of offenders.
Addressing students, the chief encouraged them to take an active interest in environmental protection, reminding them that they would inherit the consequences of today’s decisions and should begin championing protection within their halls, unions, churches and public platforms.
