Chiefs in the Ningo-Prampram District of the Greater Accra Region have dismissed allegations by the Member of Parliament for the area, Samuel Nartey George, that sand winners are engaged in illegal operations, describing the claims as false and damaging to the reputation of traditional authorities and operators.
Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, Nene Nartey Asamoah V, Chief of Kopodor and a member of the Ningo Traditional Council, refuted the MP’s assertions, insisting that sand winning activities in the district are conducted in accordance with the law and under the required regulatory approvals.
According to him, it is inaccurate to attribute the recent flooding in parts of the district to sand winning activities. He maintained that operators secure the necessary permits and documentation before undertaking any excavation, stressing that due process is followed.
Nene Nartey Asamoah V further argued that while sand winning has environmental implications that must be managed, the industry remains a vital source of employment and livelihood for many young people in the district.
He noted that the sector has helped create jobs and contributed to the local economy, urging stakeholders to rely on facts rather than make sweeping allegations that could undermine legitimate businesses and traditional institutions.
The chiefs have therefore called for balanced public discourse on the issue, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address environmental concerns without unfairly targeting licensed sand winners.
The comments come amid ongoing public debate over the causes of flooding in parts of the Greater Accra Region and the environmental impact of sand winning activities.
Source: Albert Cheetham
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