Dr. Hanna Bisiw-Kotei Discovers Illegal Mining Near Atatem Basic School, Assures Community of Reclamation Efforts, Assures Community of Reclamation Efforts

The Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, has raised serious concerns after discovering that illegal miners have encroached dangerously close to the Atatem D/A Basic School in the Ashanti Region during her recent community engagement visit.

The visit, which forms part of MDF’s ongoing efforts to monitor the impact of mining on local communities, revealed extensive land degradation just a short distance from the school premises, posing potential risks to the safety and well-being of pupils and teachers.

Dr. Bisiw-Kotei interacted with both teachers and students, urging them to remain calm and focused on their education. She assured them that immediate steps would be taken in collaboration with relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators and reclaim the affected land.

“It is unacceptable for illegal mining to endanger the lives and future of our children. We will ensure that this land is reclaimed and restored to make the environment safe again,” she stated.

She further emphasized the MDF’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices and protecting communities living in mining-affected areas.

Local residents and school authorities commended Dr. Bisiw-Kotei for her swift response and expressed optimism that her intervention would lead to lasting solutions to the environmental challenges facing the area.