According to a leaked report by former Environment Minister, Prof Frimpong-Boateng, illegal mining, or 'galamsey', was happening in the garden of President Akufo-Addo’s Kyebi residence, despite his public commitment to fighting against it.
The report named top government officials and individuals responsible for fueling the problem, and revealed that the miners were digging for gold in the President's garden. The issue was allegedly being perpetuated by the NPP Youth Organizer in the area at the time.
The former Minister confirmed the issue and sent a team to reclaim the land and vegetate it. However, nothing happened to the local youth organizer who caused the damage.
The situation is particularly worrying given the blatant nature in which the illegal mining was happening, despite the government's campaign to end it. It is important that actions are taken to tackle this issue and hold those responsible accountable, regardless of their position or affiliation.