Reclaimed and Restored-Twifo Atti Morkwa Lands Handed Over to Communities

A handing-over ceremony of reclaimed mined-out lands took place on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Twifo Atti Morkwa in the Central Region. The ceremony was held at the palace of the paramount Chief, Oseadieyo Kwesi Kenin IV, who was represented by Nana Kyeahene Afari II, the Adontihene.

The land reclamation project was initiated by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR) through the Minerals Commission. The project aimed to restore lands degraded by illegal mining activities. A total of 63 hectares (which approximates to 155.67 acres) of reclaimed lands have been revegetated with oil palm and economic tree species to promote ecological balance and offer sustainable economic benefits to the Kotokyi, Gyeaware I & II, and surrounding communities

The Minerals Commission’s team, led by Mr. Ibrahim Assani, Director of Human Resource and Administration, urged the Chiefs and community leaders to take ownership and responsibility for protecting the reclaimed lands for future generations.

Mr. Steven Agbo, Deputy Manager responsible for Community Relations at the Commission, provided a comprehensive overview of the reclamation project. He highlighted the Commission’s dedication to rehabilitating degraded lands and promoting eco-friendly mining practices. Mr. Agbo emphasized the need for the community to unite and preserve their forest and river bodies against the harmful effects of illegal mining, popularly referred to as galamsey.

Mr. Awal Suhuyini, District Coordinating Director of the District Assembly, expressed his gratitude for the initiative. He pledged to ensure the reclaimed lands are put to judicious use for the benefit of the communities.

In his closing remarks, the Adontihene, Nana Kyeahene Afari II, praised the honor done to his community through this reclamation. He pledged the Chiefs’ commitment to ensuring the reclaimed lands are protected from destruction.

As a show of goodwill and public gesture, a Project Handover Attestation document was signed by the Minerals Commission, the Paramount Chief, and the District Assembly. The document provided a comprehensive overview of the entire reclamation activities and was presented to their representatives.

The successful reclamation of mined-out lands in the Twifo Atti Morkwa District marks a significant step towards environmental restoration and sustainable development.