Anglogold Ashanti, EPA Plant Over 2000 Trees In Obuasi

AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi mine has collaborated with the Environmental Protection Agency to plant more than 2000 trees in commemoration of 2024 world environment day.

The tree planting exercise was part of series of activities lined up by AGA and EPA to mark the day. These included quiz and debate competitions among 10 senior high schools, radio programs on the need to protect the environment and a grand durbar to celebrate the day.

According to the Senior Manager Environment of AngloGold Ashanti George Owusu Ansah, the essence of the tree planting exercise which took place on the campus of Christ the King Catholic school in Obuasi, was to restore and preserve land.

“This act will also symbolize planting seeds of hope and resilience for generations to come. Each tree we plant, each acre of land we reclaim, is a testament to our commitment to healing the earth and creating a more sustainable future”, he said.

Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency, the clergy, MMDCEs, students and traditional authorities all took part in the tree planting exercise.

Earlier on, a durbar was held to mark the 2024 world environment day under the theme “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience. Instituted in 1973, World Environment Day (WED)” is celebrated annually on 5 June to create awareness for the protection of the environment.

Since its inception, it has been a platform for raising awareness on environmental issues such as marine pollution, overpopulation, global warming, sustainable consumption and wildlife crime.

According to the Senior Manager Engineering, AngloGold Ashanti has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubts, its commitment to working to protect the environment and restore impacted land into beneficial use.

As a result of this, he said AngloGold Ashanti has successfully reclaimed a non-operational 30-year-old Boete Tailings footprint, and are ready to release some 123 hectares of land for community settlement and industrial site development.

He stated that the Boete lands, once affected by mining operations, now boasts of demarcated plots with electricity and water supply infrastructure, and to be integrated into the Obuasi Community and Economic development.

Additionally, in a remarkable feat of environmental stewardship, the Obuasi Mine has restored the Eaton Turner Shaft (ETS) to its former glory. Now, it stands as a beacon of hope for the local economy, ready to welcome real estate developments, businesses, and various sectors eager to contribute to the growth of Obuasi.  By reclaiming and restoring lands no longer in use for mining, the company have not only mitigated its environmental impact, but also paved the way for sustainable development and a brighter future for Obuasi and its environs.

Prempeh Adarkwa Yiadom, the Obuasi Area Manager of the Economic Protection Agency (EPA) on his part bemoaned the devastation effects of illegal and irresponsible mining in Obuasi which he said  have plundered the landscapes, leaving behind a trail of destructions.

He said it was imperative for residents to realize that the wealth extracted from the lands today cannot compensate for the barren wastelands that are left for the future generations tomorrow.

“We must advocate for responsible mining practices that prioritize environmental preservation alongside economic gains”, he added.

Mr. Yiadom advised that the indiscriminate use of agro chemicals have poisoned the soils, seeped into our water bodies, and endangered public health. He said it was high time we embraced eco-friendly farming techniques that nurture the soil, safeguard our waters, and nourish our bodies.

He however proposed a collaborative effort where we strive to be stewards of the land, sowing seeds of sustainability for a bountiful and healthier tomorrow.

Speaking on behalf, the Chief Executive of the Obuasi East District Faustina Amissah said the only way to stop desertification and drought was to step up public education and awareness creation on the effects of environmental pollution.