The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Talensi, Hon. John Milim Nabwomya, has called for a strategic balance between economic activity and environmental stewardship during a high-level stakeholder engagement addressing sand winning in the Pwalugu area.
Addressing traditional leaders, regulatory bodies, and local operators, the DCE emphasized that while sand winning supports the construction industry and local livelihoods, unregulated extraction poses an existential threat to the district’s natural resources.
Hon. Nabwomya highlighted the growing concerns of the Talensi District Assembly regarding the scale of current operations. He noted that the Assembly has seen a rise in reports concerning the unchecked destruction of fertile farmlands, potential threats to the water resources within the White Volta Basin and the long-term impact on residents who depend on these ecosystems.
“This engagement is not to apportion blame,” Hon. Nabwomya stated.
“It is to create a platform for dialogue and cooperation so that together we can promote lawful and responsible extraction practices.” he added
The DCE reminded stakeholders that sand winning is governed by strict national laws. He underscored the statutory roles of the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Water Resources Commission in ensuring national standards are met.
Furthermore, he pointed to the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), which mandates the District Assembly to regulate activities within its jurisdiction to protect public health and environmental sustainability.
To the operators and equipment owners present, Hon. Nabwomya acknowledged the role of legitimate business in local development but issued a firm reminder:
“Economic activities must be carried out in strict compliance with the law to ensure they do not compromise the well-being of our communities.”
The DCE concluded by expressing his expectation for “solution-oriented” deliberations, aimed at safeguarding peace, social cohesion, and the environment for future generations in Pwalugu and its surroundings.