Klefe Chief Fights Illegal Gold Mining In Ghana

By Desmond Tinana

The Paramount Chief of Klefe Traditional Area, Torgbe Koku Dzaga XI, has added his voice to the fight against illegal gold mining, popularly known as Galamsey in Ghana.

Torgbe, who spoke at the Grand Durbar of the 2024 Klefe Yam Festival, said, “A major activity of great concern in our country today is the destruction of our lands and water bodies in the name of illegal mining, also known as galamsey. We join the call by all the relevant institutions, individuals and communities to rise and combat the wanton destruction and irreparable damage being caused to our water bodies by all irresponsible activities including galamsey. Let us be bold to defend our Ghana land.”

The Paramount Chief also used the opportunity to call for peace and unity as Ghana prepares for the upcoming December 7 General Elections in line with the Festival’s Theme for this year which is “Peace, Unity and Commitment, Surety for Development.”

According to him, “Without peace, all our toils are in vain,” he therefore cautioned the youth against being manipulated into violence, urging them to embrace peace and unity stressing that unity is vital for progress thus calling on the community to prioritize harmony as they engage in the electoral process.

Torgbe Koku Dzaga XI also mentioned that the Yam Festival has helped in the development of Klefe as proceeds from previous celebrations have been used to fund essential projects, including the upgrading of the Klefe Health Post into a fully equipped Clinic.

He also noted that proceeds from this year’s fundraising would be used to complete the Klefe Technical and Vocational Institute, calling for the need for increased support to ensure the continued success of the institute. He outlined ongoing discussions with Ho Technical University to enhance student training while highlighting the urgent need for transportation for students. Torgbe also appealed for a school bus and administrative vehicles as the community strives to provide quality vocational education.

A citation of honour was also presented at the event to the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Honourable Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin who was the guest of Honor for the Festival. In the words of Torgbe, “We know his tremendous contributions to the progress of this country for the last 32 years and are very much encouraged by his ardent promotion of Ghanaian customs and family values.”

During the grand durbar, the Paramount Chief also expressed deep gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his unwavering support to the traditional area highlighting significant developments, including the construction of key roads, enhanced street lighting, and the absorption of the Klefe Technical Vocational Institute into the mainstream Ghana Education Service. These initiatives have positively impacted the community, fostering better access to education and infrastructure.

The history of the Festival, according to Torgbe, dates back to the 17th century and serves not only as a celebration of agricultural harvest but also as a reminder of the sacrifices made by their ancestors. As the Chief addressed the congregation at the Festival grounds, he emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and honouring the struggles of the past. “Preserving our land and water is a duty,” he proclaimed, rallying the community to reflect on their heritage and responsibilities towards future generations.

The Chief concluded with heartfelt thanks to individuals who have supported the community’s development, including Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa. His contributions have been instrumental in improving infrastructure and promoting tourism in Klefe. Looking ahead, the Chief expressed hope for further collaboration to achieve the community’s vision of excellence in education and sustainable development.

During an interview session with Journalists, the chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, Evans Kuami Buami, said work will commence for the completion of the building project of the Technical Vocational Institute right after the Festival once the funds raised are enough to roof the structure.