In the small town of Jema in Ghana’s Western North region, a remarkable story of integrity and resilience has emerged amidst the destructive tide of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey. Nana Enuku Ano II, the chief of Jema, has become a beacon of hope in the fight against this environmental scourge, steadfastly refusing substantial financial inducements to allow mining on his land.
Despite being bedridden for nearly a decade, Nana Enuku Ano II has demonstrated unwavering commitment to protecting his community’s land and resources. Speaking from his sickbed, the chief disclosed how he turned down multiple offers, including a vehicle and promises of medical treatment in South Africa, all in exchange for permitting illegal mining in Jema.
“They promised to send me to South Africa for treatment,” the chief revealed, highlighting the desperation of those seeking to exploit Jema’s natural resources. The offers were not insignificant – 250,000 cedis, then 350,000 cedis, and finally a staggering 700,000 cedis. Yet, the chief remained resolute in his refusal.
This steadfast stance against galamsey is particularly noteworthy given the chief’s dire personal circumstances. Father Joseph Kwame Bley, a Franciscan friar and community leader, described the chief’s situation: “As we see the state of our chief, he’s practically a pauper, but the man is a man of integrity. That in his poor state, he’s really a needy, he’s really poor. He says never, and he’s suffering.”
The chief’s actions have not gone unnoticed. On January 17, 2019, the entire community of Jema, including Nana Enuku Ano II, the Council of Elders, unit committees, and residents of all ages, met to denounce small-scale mining and galamsey. They collectively agreed never to allow surface mining on their lands, a decision formalized in a petition to the President of Ghana in August 2022.
In this petition, the community outlined 13 reasons for their stance against mining, including the protection of farmlands, water sources, and forest reserves. The chief’s signature on this document stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his people and their land.
Nana Enuku Ano II’s story is a powerful example of leadership and integrity in the face of overwhelming temptation. His actions serve as an inspiration not only to his community but to all of Ghana in the ongoing battle against illegal mining. As the nation grapples with the devastating effects of galamsey, the chief of Jema stands as a symbol of hope and resistance, proving that even in the most challenging circumstances, it is possible to choose the greater good over personal gain.
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