Ex-MP for Builsa North, Timothy Ataboadey Awontirim, asserts foreign debt permits illegal mining in Ghana. He warns of severe economic and environmental consequences if unchecked.
In a Prime Morning show interview, he highlights how financial influence, exemplified by individuals like Aisha Huang, exploits legal gaps for unauthorized mining rights amid the country’s debt burden.
“This country owes the Chinese government 1.9 billion dollars,” he told host, Rosellyn Felli on Tuesday, December 5, 2023.
The ex-lawmaker urges the government to promptly address regulatory loopholes and enhance protective measures against exploitation.
Mr. Awontirim emphasized the existing hardships for residents in mining areas, encompassing environmental damage and direct livelihood impacts.
He highlighted how unauthorized mining contributes to deforestation, soil erosion, loss of lives, and water contamination, posing significant threats to local ecosystems.
“Women with unborn children (fetuses) have been destroyed, and some of the fetuses have been sent to labs for further study as a result of the colossal damage caused by illegal miners like Aisha Huang,” he added.