By Seraphine Nyuiemedi
The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli state, Togbe Afede XIV, has raised alarm over the growing threats of corruption and environmental degradation, cautioning that these issues, if not addressed, could significantly undermine Ghana’s future development.
Speaking at this year’s Asogli Yam Festival in Ho, located in the Ho Municipality of the Volta Region, the Agbogbomefia called for immediate reforms to safeguard the nation’s resources and ensure sustainable development.
In his address, Togbe Afede expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of illegal mining activities, known locally as “galamsey.”
He highlighted that more than 100,000 acres of arable land had been lost to these destructive practices, resulting in severe environmental damage and threatening the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
He estimated that reclaiming these lands could cost the state over $5 billion, a figure that underscores the gravity of the crisis.
“I’ve heard that more than 100,000 acres of cocoa farm land have been destroyed. What is worrying is that it will take a lot of the state resources to reclaim those lands. Estimate suggest that it will cost about 52,000 US dollars to reclaim an acre of degraded land that has been excavated only 900 millimeters, that’s three feet, $52,000 to reclaim one acre of degraded land, which means that For 100,000 acres of cocoa farmland alone, the state will be requiring in excess of 5 billion US dollars for reclamation after a few have dug recklessly, our land in search of gold and enrich themselves at the expense of the state,” he said.
He emphasized the critical need to preserve Ghana’s natural resources, particularly its land and water bodies, for the well-being of future generations. His comments come at a time when the country’s rivers and farmlands have been severely polluted, mainly due to unregulated mining activities that have poisoned water sources and rendered once fertile lands barren.
Togbe Afede was equally firm in his condemnation of the rampant corruption that has plagued Ghana’s public institutions. He likened corrupt officials to “termites eating away at the foundations of our development,” stressing that corruption had become one of the biggest obstacles to national progress. He lamented that the culture of corruption was not only stifling growth but also deepening inequalities, as resources meant for public good were siphoned off for personal gain.
Togbe Afede urged that only leaders committed to justice and the equitable distribution of the country’s resources should be entrusted with positions of power. He noted that political leadership must focus on long-term national interests, rather than short-term personal or partisan gains.
He further called for a shift in governance that would address these systemic issues, advocating for policies that are people-centered and environmentally conscious. Togbe Afede’s address resonated with many in attendance, as he also spoke to the broader challenges facing the country, from unemployment to rising inflation, which he linked to poor governance and a lack of accountability.
Togbe Afede encouraged all Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to demand more from their leaders and hold them accountable. He urged citizens to take a stand against corruption and support efforts to protect the environment. Togbe Afede stressed that while the road ahead may be challenging, collective action can lead to the change Ghana needs.