The Extraction Accountability Project (TEAP), a youth-led organization dedicated to environmental advocacy, has launched a vigorous campaign aimed at exposing what it describes as illegal and irresponsible mining practices by powerful figures in Ghana’s extractive sector
In a strong-worded press release delivered by Generational Secretary Mr. Charles McCarthy and supported by President Mr. Kwadwo Yeboah, the group unveiled its ‘name-and-shame’ initiative in the Eastern Region, which they assert is the focal point of environmental degradation.
TEAP’s primary target is Mr. Godwin N. Armah, the General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) and the founder of Transeco Minerals and Mining Ltd.
The organization alleges that Mr. Armah’s operations in Nsuapemso, Kyebi Adadeatem, and Osino are marked by irresponsible mining practices, including open, unreclaimed pits that cause significant environmental damage.
“Mr. Armah claims to advocate for responsible mining, yet the evidence suggests otherwise,” McCarthy stated.
“His sites, instead of exemplifying best practices, reportedly showcase environmental harm and a disregard for the standards he claims to uphold.”
Mr. Armah is a man who publicly condemns irresponsible mining, wearing the garb of a righteous crusader but on the ground, his actions speak louder than any sanctimonious speech,” he stated.
TEAP also expressed concerns about Mr. Armah’s continued role on the board of GOLDBOD, an organization tasked with promoting responsible practices in the gold industry.
The group questioned how an individual allegedly involved in environmental destruction could hold such a critical oversight position.
Even more troubling, TEAP asserts that certain individuals within National Security and other governmental agencies are protecting Mr. Armah and others like him, while those who engage in lawful mining face harassment and arrest.
In a direct appeal, the group called on Minister of Finance Dr. Ato Forson, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah Buah, and GOLDBOD CEO Sammy Gyamfi to investigate the allegations and swiftly remove Mr. Armah from the GOLDBOD board if he is found guilty.
“We are not here to convict anyone in the court of public opinion, but are here to raise alarm over what we believe to be an existential threat to our environment. Those with the power must now act.” McCarthy stated.