The Bolgatanga Municipal Director of Agriculture, Lamtana Osman, has raised alarm over the growing impact of illegal mining on food production within the municipality.
Speaking at the 41st Farmers’ Day celebration in Bolgatanga, Madam Osman urged communities and traditional leaders to take collective action against the illegal mining activities—popularly known as galamsey—that are degrading farmlands, polluting water bodies, and contaminating soil.
“As we celebrate our farmers and the contributions of agriculture to our economy, we must also acknowledge the challenges facing our sector,” she said. “One major concern is illegal mining taking place in some communities within our municipality.”
She warned that the devastation caused by miners is compounding existing pressures in the peri-urban municipality, where agricultural lands are already shrinking due to encroachment and rapid development.
“The impact of illegal mining will only worsen these issues, leading to land degradation, erosion and loss of biodiversity,” she added.
This year’s Farmers’ Day celebration was held under the theme “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future.” Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive Roland Ayoo encouraged residents to patronize locally produced foods to strengthen food systems, promote local consumption, and build long-term resilience in the agricultural sector.
Atogtue Sulemana from the Zaare community was adjudged the overall Best Farmer for the municipality. He received a MotorKing tricycle, knapsack sprayer, Wellington boots, cloth, bags of YARA fertilizer, OFA, and a certificate. He expressed excitement and gratitude for the recognition.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga
