The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has stated that the Volta Region will develop its mineral resources without engaging in illegal mining, also known as galamsey. Speaking at the Volta Economic Forum on 23 September 2026, Togbe Afede expressed confidence that significant mineral deposits remain undiscovered in the region. He emphasized that the region will become a mining hub, but with responsible extraction practices. This move is expected to bring new investment, jobs, and revenue streams to the area.
According to Togbe Afede, the Volta Region lags behind other parts of Ghana in mineral exploration, but he is optimistic that substantial deposits of minerals are yet to be discovered. The region's mining future, he stressed, does not have to follow the destructive path taken elsewhere in Ghana. He cited the devastating impact of unregulated mining practices in the Ashanti, Western, and Eastern regions, which have scarred forests and rivers. Togbe Afede's remarks have added a traditional authority's voice to the national conversation on galamsey.
The Volta Chief's pledge comes at a time when the issue of galamsey has intensified in recent weeks. A KNUST academic had called for chiefs to take a frontline role in the anti-galamsey fight, while Wenchi royals demanded an investigation into a leaked report tying local chiefs to mining cash. These episodes have raised questions about the role traditional leaders play in the spread of illegal mining on stool and skin lands. The government's efforts to curb galamsey have included the Environmental Protection Agency's shutdown of mining sites.
The proposed development of the Volta Region's mineral resources carries risks familiar to communities in other regions, including water pollution, land degradation, and conflict between small-scale operators and formal licence holders. Togbe Afede emphasized that the region's growth must translate into real gains in employment and living standards for residents, rather than short-term profit for a few operators. He tied the region's broader development agenda to responsible management of natural resources.
While details on the specific minerals identified, companies or agencies involved in exploration, or a timeline for licensing have not been made public, Togbe Afede described the Volta Economic Forum as part of an effort to mobilise resources for the region's development plans. The forum aims to bring together stakeholders to discuss the region's development agenda and explore opportunities for responsible mineral extraction.
The Volta Region's mining sector is expected to be developed in a way that prioritizes responsible extraction practices, with a focus on creating jobs and stimulating local economies. This approach is in contrast to the galamsey practices that have devastated other regions in Ghana. By adopting a responsible approach to mining, the Volta Region hopes to avoid the environmental and social impacts associated with unregulated mining.
Togbe Afede's commitment to responsible mining practices in the Volta Region has been welcomed by stakeholders. The region's development plans are expected to prioritize the needs of local communities, with a focus on creating sustainable economic opportunities. The success of this approach will depend on effective collaboration between stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government agencies, and private sector operators.
Key points
- Volta Region to become a mining hub with responsible extraction practices.
- Togbe Afede XIV vows to keep galamsey out of the Volta Region's mining sector.
- The region's development agenda prioritizes responsible management of natural resources.
