July 28, 2025 – A cross-section of indigenes in Jomoro have vowed to resist any galamsey (illegal mining) activities on their lands and river bodies, reaffirming their commitment to protect and preserve them for future livelihoods.
According to them, money acquired through galamsey is short-lived, but the sanctity and purity of the land and rivers are vital sources of long-term productivity to sustain both the current generation and those yet unborn.
The indigenes spoke to Nzema Today TV News in separate interviews across the Jomoro Municipality in the Western Region.
The Nzema Today TV news team recently visited the area to investigate the extent of galamsey activities in the municipality. During our visit, we found that the land in Jomoro is mostly intact, in stark contrast to the severe damage observed in nearby districts like Ellembelle and Nzema East, where galamsey has wreaked havoc. Residents shared that farming in Jomoro is still thriving, with the region abundant in both arable and cash crops. One passenger in a vehicle noted that despite the absence of companies or industries in Jomoro Municipality, the youth have committed to avoiding galamsey, understanding the long-term harm it inflicts on the environment and food production. “Let the people in Ellembelle, with all their companies, ruin their rivers and lands. We in Jomoro will continue to grow local food for them to buy,” said one passenger. Our reporter noted that while the Amanzule River in Ellembelle District is polluted, it remains pristine at Beyin in Jomoro. Residents at Bonyere mentioned that the Domunli River is also untouched, maintaining its natural state without any signs of illegal mining. The Domunli River, thought to be a potential source of petroleum, was found to be clean and undisturbed. Residents depend on it not only for drinking water but also for their livelihoods through fishing. Some community members expressed their commitment to safeguarding their rivers and lands from galamsey for the benefit of future generations.
By Kodwo Nyamekeh
