Some residents of Damang in the Western Region say they are relieved the government has refused to renew the mining lease of Goldfields Ghana Ltd, which has operated in the town for over 30 years.

0

Although the company was one of the most prominent in the country’s gold mining industry, many in Damang believe it failed to improve the lives of people in the area during its long stay.

1

“You cannot be in a town for three decades and leave it looking abandoned,” said Emmanuel Afful, Convener of the Concerned Youth of the Damang Catchment Area.“There’s no hospital, no functional water systems in some communities, and the same dusty, pothole-ridden roads.”

2

The youth say they are not against mining, but they expected more development from the company after three decades of operation.

3

“Compare Damang to Kenyasi or Akyem, where other mining companies have built hospitals and better infrastructure,” Afful added.“Three decades should have transformed Damang, but instead we got neglect.”

4

To them, the government’s decision to stop the company’s operations is a long-overdue step toward justice.

5

They are calling on the government to stay firm in its decision and not give in to pressure to change its mind.

6

“The youth commend the government for listening to the voices that have long been ignored and urge it to remain resolute against any pressure to reverse course,” Afful said.

7