Eric Dakurah Raises Alarms Over Mining Activities and Possible Concession Transfers in Nadowli-Kaleo

Mr. Eric Dakurah Faanuba

Former Upper West Regional Secretary for the National Democratic Congress Mr. Eric Faanuba Dakurah has voiced serious concerns over ongoing and potential mining operations by Azumah Resources and the involvement of Engineers & Planners (E&P) in the Nadowli-Kaleo District. In a press statement issued and copied to Info Radio, Eric Dakurah Faanuba who is currently the Deputy Chief Human Resource Manager at the Nadowli District Hospital and a respected traditional and political leader, called for urgent action to ensure responsible mining practices and community development.

Faanuba’s statement sheds light on years of community skepticism regarding Azumah Resources’ exploration activities, which many locals believe have veered into illegal mining. According to Mr. Eric Dakurah, during his tenure as Assembly Member for the Samatigu Electoral area, he personally visited sites like Charikpong Nanga, witnessing signs suggesting that actual extraction might have already begun, despite assurances from the company that only exploration was underway.

“Azumah Resources has repeatedly claimed to be only prospecting,” Faanuba stated. “Yet, their inability to clarify timelines for actual mining operations or to demonstrate tangible contributions to our community’s well-being raises serious doubts.”

Adding weight to these concerns is recent unconfirmed information suggesting that Engineers & Planners may be preparing to acquire or has already acquired the concession initially held by Azumah Resources. Although official confirmation from the Minerals Commission has not been issued, the potential transfer raises critical questions about environmental protection, community benefits, and sustainable development.

Faanuba emphasized the need for transparency, posing key questions:

- Has there been a formal transfer of concession rights?

- Does this concession include ecologically sensitive areas like the Black Volta enclave?

- What measures are in place to ensure the new concessionaire prioritizes social, environmental, and economic development?

He underscored that the district’s health facilities, schools, and youth employment opportunities are vital areas that should benefit from responsible mining activities. “Our district’s youth are seeking jobs, our schools need support, and our health institutions require equipment. If these companies are to exploit our land, they must contribute meaningfully to our community’s growth,” Faanuba asserted.

Mr. Eric Dakurah Faanuba in his statement urged the Nadowli-Kaleo District Assembly, Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other stakeholders to convene an inclusive multi-stakeholder dialogue. He advocates for transparency and the drafting of binding Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) that include commitments to local employment, community infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.

“Let us ensure that our land’s resources benefit our people—not just corporate profit,” he concluded. “It is our collective responsibility to demand accountability and push for development that uplifts all.”