The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company, Judith Adjobah Blay, has sounded the alarm over the growing threat posed by illegal mining activities near Akango in the Nzema East Municipality. According to her, the encroachment of galamsey operators poses a significant risk to the country’s main gas pipeline, which transports lean gas from the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant to Kumasi for power generation.
Speaking to Channel One TV after a tour of the affected area, Madam Blay warned that any damage to the highly inflammable pipeline could have devastating consequences for both national energy security and the safety of surrounding communities. “This pipeline is essential for transporting gas to support electricity generation across the country. Its proximity to illegal mining sites is deeply troubling,” she emphasised.
The pipeline, constructed in 2012, plays a vital role in supporting electricity generation in Ghana. However, the increasing spate of illegal mining activity now threatens the integrity of this crucial infrastructure. Madam Blay assured that Ghana Gas is taking immediate steps to secure the area and prevent further encroachment by illegal miners.
While condemning the destructive activities of illegal miners, Madam Blay urged local residents to actively support the company’s efforts to safeguard the gas infrastructure. “This is a national asset. We must all come together to protect it,” she added. The Ghana Gas CEO’s call highlights the need for collective action to protect the country’s strategic energy assets from the growing threat of galamsey.
