Residents of Tarkwa Banso stage massive protest against Ghana Manganese Company

Hundreds of residents of Tarkwa Banso have taken to the streets in a massive demonstration against the Ghana Manganese Company.

They voiced their frustrations over the deplorable state of their roads, lack of potable water, and the impact of blasting activities on their livelihoods.

Carrying placards and chanting slogans, the protesters marched through the main streets of the town, eventually converging at the entrance of the mining company’s premises.

The demonstrators demanded immediate action from the company, accusing it of neglecting its corporate social responsibilities and prioritizing profits over the well-being of the community.

“We have had enough,” said Joseph Kwofie, the Assembly Member for Tarkwa Banso and leader of the demonstrators. “The roads are in terrible condition, making it difficult for us to travel and transport our goods. We have no access to clean drinking water, and the constant blasting is damaging our homes and farmlands. Our children cannot study properly, and our health is at risk. This cannot continue.”

The primary demands of the demonstrators are for the immediate removal of the current head of the Community Affairs Office, an increase in the quota for service personnel and scholarships allotted to the community, and the appointment of individuals from the host community to key positions within the Community Affairs Office.

At the heart of the petition presented by the leader was a call to increase the current quota of service personnel and scholarships from two to ten. According to Joseph Kwofie, this would significantly enhance the development of the local youth by providing more opportunities for education and employment, which are currently limited.

The demonstration and the subsequent petition presentation were peaceful, with local police providing security to ensure order. However, the leader warned that if their demands are not met within a month, further actions could be taken.

In response to the demonstration, a representative from the Ghana Manganese Company addressed the crowd through an interpreter, promising to look into their concerns.

“We understand the community’s grievances and are committed to working together to find sustainable solutions. We will engage with local leaders to address the issues of road infrastructure, water supply, and the impact of our operations,” he said.

The post Residents of Tarkwa Banso stage massive protest against Ghana Manganese Company first appeared on 3News.

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