Wenchi Manhene vows to prevent mining on a 202-acre land despite lease documents
The Wenchi Manhene, Osagyefo Ampem Anye Amoampong Tabrako III, has expressed alarm over a mining lease granted for a 202-acre land within his jurisdiction.
According to him, a purported document titled “Mining Lease,” issued on December 3, 2024, and presented to him by a Chinese company for quarry activities, raises serious concerns about the potential impact on the community and environment in Wenchi.
In a shocking revelation, Wenchi Manhene disclosed that he was denied negotiations and his consent letter was not sought before the Lands Ministry granted a lease for approximately 800 plots to a Chinese company for quarry activities in Wenchi.
Speaking at a meeting with the Minerals Commission and the Bono Regional House of Chiefs on August 6, Wenchi Manhene said that the company bypassed him and engaged his sub-chiefs when they came to Wenchi to mine.
Osagyefo vowed to prevent any company that attempts to mine illegally or evade proper negotiations in accordance with the Minerals Act, underscoring his commitment to protecting his community’s interests.
Wenchi Paramount Chief made the revelation when the president of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyeman Badu II gave members the floor to voice their concerns and provide proposals aimed at enabling reforms and amendments to Ghana’s mining laws.
Early this year, illegal mining activities in Atuna, a community within the Wenchi Traditional Area, sparked widespread resistance and concerns among residents, with some accusing the Paramount Chief of involvement.
However, the Paramount Chief vehemently denied these allegations, explaining to the House of Chiefs and Minerals Commission officers that he was wrongfully accused.
According to Wenchi Manhene, he has consistently raised objections and resistance to attempts by Chinese nationals to engage in illegal mining under the guise of small-scale mining.
He revealed that his swift action foiled these activities, and he even arrested two Chinese nationals and confiscated two pickup vehicles.
However, he expressed disappointment upon learning that the suspect was not prosecuted by the police, who claimed there was insufficient evidence to pursue the case.
“I personally arrested two Chinese nationals and confiscated 2 pickups and handed them over to the police. I was there, and the police commander called and said Nana, you have no case, so we can’t prosecute them. Let’s write their cautioned statement and leave them.” he said in twi.
To ensure responsible mining, the Wenchi Manhene urged the Minerals Commission to involve traditional leaders who own the land in the mining lease issuance process.
Osagyefo emphasized the need for transparency and inclusivity to protect the interests of local communities.
Responding to Wenchi Manhene’s concerns, Mr. Benjamin Aye, former Minerals Commission CEO and policy review team lead, assured that the concerns over the 202-acre lease would be forwarded to Accra for rectification.
He highlighted the importance of regular engagement with chiefs to address such concerns and ensure a smoother process.
