A growing number of farmers in mining communities across the Ashanti Region are leaving their farms to engage in illegal mining, a trend officials warn could jeopardise food security in the area.
According to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the shift is most pronounced in the Amansie Central, West, and South Districts, where farming and mining form the backbone of local livelihoods. Farmers are increasingly drawn to illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which they perceive as more lucrative than traditional farming.
Officials are also concerned that illegal mining activities are destroying farmlands, further threatening the sustainability of agriculture in these communities.
Amansie South District Director of Agriculture, Millicent Aluah Ackah, described the situation as a major challenge to the sector.
We are being challenged because of galamsey. Many farms have been destroyed due to illegal mining activities, and this is affecting where we currently have significant farming operations,” she said.
Ackah highlighted logistical challenges and inadequate staffing at the District Agriculture Office as key obstacles impeding efforts to support farmers and protect farmlands.
She appealed for greater support, especially ahead of the upcoming Farmers’ Day celebrations, to provide incentives and prizes that could encourage farmers to remain in agriculture.
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