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On February 6, 2024, the serene town of Nkukua Buoho, nestled within the Afigya Kwabre South District of the Ashanti Region, was rocked by a wave of protests as aggrieved residents took to the streets.
Their grievance, the wanton destruction of their properties by quarry companies operating in the area.
The demonstrators, fueled by frustration and desperation, directed their ire towards two quarry companies, Modern Granite and ESM Company, accusing them of wreaking havoc on their once peaceful community.
Over time, the incessant explosions, a byproduct of quarry operations, had taken a heavy toll on the residents’ properties.
Reports surfaced of houses marred by deep cracks and roofs damaged by flying stones propelled by the force of the blasts.
Such devastation not only posed a threat to the structural integrity of their homes but also shattered their sense of security and stability.
In their outcry for justice, the residents turned to the government, the District Assembly, and their District Chief Executive, Honorable Adu Poku Christian as popularly known as APC, pleading for intervention.
They implored these authorities to heed their plight and take decisive action to alleviate their suffering.
One of the leaders of the residents, Rebecca Frimpong voiced their anguish, condemning the quarry companies for their role in the community’s plight.
“This morning, our anger is palpable. For nearly ten years, we’ve grappled with this issue.
“The incessant passage of their heavy vehicles has ravaged our roads, leaving behind clouds of dust that pose a serious threat to our health,” she said.
Mr. Nii Noi Emmanuel, visibly enraged, voiced his frustration as he issued a stern ultimatum to the companies, demanding immediate redress for their grievances or facing the wrath of the community.
“Just last week during their blasting, some of their rocks struck our homes, causing extensive damage to our properties.
“This isn’t the first instance of such destruction, and when we voice our concerns, they resort to threats, which is unacceptable.
“We’re issuing them a two-week ultimatum, and if no action is taken, they’ll face further consequences from us,” he said.
Amidst the mounting tension, Ramsey Adams, the Operations Manager for Modern Granite Company, responded, acknowledging receipt of the residents’ petition.
He offered assurances that the company would prioritize addressing their concerns, signaling a glimmer of hope for the embattled community.
The protests in Nkukua Buoho serve as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics between industrial development and community well-being.
While quarry operations may promise economic benefits, they also carry profound implications for the lives and livelihoods of those directly impacted by their activities.
As the dust settles on the streets of Nkukua Buoho, the resolve of its residents remains unyielding.
Their demand for justice echoes far beyond their town, resonating as a clarion call for accountability and empathy in the pursuit of progress.
Only time will tell whether their voices are heard and their grievances addressed, or if they are condemned to endure the relentless march of industrialization at the expense of their homes and heritage.
Nana Yaw Owusu/Ashanti Region.
