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Joseph Boahen Aidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, has strongly condemned the actions of MIGOP Mining Limited, a foreign-owned gold mining firm accused of endangering the livelihoods of cocoa farmers in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, Ashanti Region.
Aidoo criticized the mining company for its attempts to explore and mine in the affected communities, which have resulted in the destruction of several cocoa farms. He described these actions as both unlawful and unacceptable.
It has been reported that approximately 400 acres of cocoa farms are at risk due to the exploration activities conducted by MIGOP Mining Limited.
The potential commencement of full-scale operations by the firm could have devastating effects on five cocoa-growing communities in the area.
Aidoo reiterated the protection afforded to cocoa trees under the law, stating, “It is unlawful to destroy any cocoa tree or even to remove any tree on the cocoa farm. Which means that you can’t even go there and mine.”
He criticized the Minerals Commission for its lack of oversight, noting that while the commission had issued an exploration license to the mining company, it had failed to follow up to ensure that no mining activities took place.
Aidoo assured that COCOBOD is committed to supporting the affected farmers and will assist in securing fair compensation for any disruptions caused to their farms.
He emphasized that COCOBOD would work to ensure that the mining company adheres to the law and respects the rights of cocoa farmers in the region.
