By Michael Kofi Kenetey
The newly appointed Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has called on traditional leaders to use their authority to help curb illegal mining in the region.
Mrs. Awatey emphasized that sustainable development cannot be achieved without addressing the devastating effects of illegal mining, which continues to destroy the environment, deplete forest reserves, pollute water bodies, and threaten the future of the region. She made these remarks during the End-of-Year Meeting of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs at Kyebi in the Abuakwa South Municipality of the Eastern Region.
The rescheduled meeting, originally set for last year but postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, provided an opportunity for the newly appointed minister to seek guidance, cooperation, and partnership from the chiefs. It also allowed her to introduce herself formally to the Regional House of Chiefs and express gratitude for their unwavering support following her nomination by President John Dramani Mahama and her subsequent vetting and swearing-in as Eastern Regional Minister.
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs. Awatey reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with traditional leaders to foster a more prosperous, peaceful, and unified region where residents can lead meaningful lives. She also reiterated her dedication to prioritizing education in the region.
Addressing the issue of chieftaincy disputes, Mrs. Awatey noted that such conflicts, which occasionally arise in parts of the region, pose a serious threat to peace and stability. She reassured the chiefs of President Mahama’s commitment to supporting efforts to resolve these disputes.
The President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, Nene Sakite, acknowledged concerns that chieftaincy disputes contribute significantly to security threats in Ghana. He urged all stakeholders to take proactive measures to prevent actions that could undermine the security and peace of the region, emphasizing that these are fundamental to development.
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