Otumfuo Osei Tutu II starts restoration of 153-hectare Jimi River site

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially launched a significant land and water restoration project at the Jimi River near Obuasi. This initiative is focused on reclaiming approximately 153 hectares of land that has been severely damaged by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. During the launch, the Asantehene personally planted trees to mark the commencement of the restoration works, which are organized under the broader Green Ashanti Initiative. The primary goal of this pilot project is to protect and secure a vital water source that provides for more than 200,000 residents in the Obuasi area. The project utilizes a specialized six-step rehabilitation model designed to ensure the long-term recovery of the river's ecosystem. This comprehensive approach addresses the severe ecological degradation caused by illegal mining activities, which have long threatened the quality and availability of water in the region. The restoration effort is being undertaken in close collaboration with AngloGold Ashanti and various government officials, representing a partnership between traditional authorities, the private sector, and the state to combat environmental destruction. Beyond the immediate recovery of the Jimi River, this initiative serves as a model for future environmental conservation efforts across the Ashanti Region. By spearheading this exercise, the Asantehene has emphasized the critical role of traditional leadership in environmental stewardship and the protection of natural resources. The successful rehabilitation of these 153 hectares is expected to provide a framework for restoring other degraded lands in Ghana, ensuring that clean water and healthy forests remain accessible for future generations.