The Paramount Chief and Overlord of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area, His Royal Majesty Awulae Blay IX, has called on the government, traditional leaders, and citizens of Ellembelle to unite in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and protect the environment for future generations.
Speaking at the climax of the 2025 Ellembelle Kundum Festival, Awulae Blay IX urged the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, and other state agencies, including the Forestry Commission, Minerals Commission, and Environmental Protection Agency, to intensify collaborative efforts to restore the polluted Ankobra, Fia, and other rivers across Nzemaland.
“We must seize this moment to bring change,” he said. “Our environment is our life. Together, we can flush out galamsey and free our lands and rivers from poison.”
The Paramount Chief pledged his full support to government initiatives aimed at eradicating illegal mining while promoting sustainable alternatives such as reforestation, environmental education, and livelihood empowerment for the youth.
Addressing the young people of Ellembelle, Awulae Blay IX appealed to them to channel their energy into nation-building rather than engaging in destructive practices.
“Do not let greed destroy your future. The same land that gives you life must not be destroyed for short-term gain,” he advised. “Your strength and creativity should build Ellembelle, not ruin it.”
He also called for peace, unity, and the end of chieftaincy and political divisions, emphasizing that true development can only thrive in a harmonious environment.
Awulae Blay IX further highlighted the importance of education as a tool for transformation, announcing the continued support of the HRM Awulae Blay IX Foundation to sponsor brilliant but needy students across Ellembelle.
“Education remains our greatest weapon for change,” he stated. “It will prepare our youth to become lawyers, engineers, doctors, and leaders who will protect our heritage and build our future.”
Awulae reminded the people of Ellembelle that the Kundum Festival is not only about celebration but also about cultural reflection and renewal. He encouraged parents to teach their children the Nzema language, songs, and traditions to preserve their cultural identity.
Ending his address with a prayer, Awulae Blay IX invoked blessings upon Ellembelle and Ghana:
“May Ellembelle continue to prosper in peace, dignity, unity, and abundance. God bless Ellembelle. God bless our people. God bless our homeland, Ghana.”
By Bismark Armah Nwiah-Kwofie | Ekuzoa News Publisher | November 4, 2025