Efforts are underway to reinstate the Bole area into a nationwide geological survey exercise after it was initially removed due to concerns over security and peace in the traditional area.The Ghana Geological Survey Authority, working in collaboration with the Minerals Commission and funded by the Gold Board, had selected ten regions and communities across the country for geological investigations aimed at identifying mineral resources and establishing community mining initiatives.
However, Bole was later excluded from the list following reports suggesting instability in the area.Addressing chiefs, youth, and queen mothers at the Bolewura’s palace on April 3, 2026 the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Alhaji Yussif sulemana explained that the decision to remove the area was based on concerns raised during stakeholder consultations that the area was not peaceful enough to guarantee the safety of survey personnel.
According to him, upon learning of the exclusion, he engaged officials of the Geological Survey Authority to seek clarification and advocate for the inclusion of Bole. He emphasized that the area remains peaceful and capable of hosting the exercise without any security threats.He further disclosed that authorities are willing to reinstate Bole into the programme on the condition that traditional leaders provide firm assurances of peace and security for the technical team.
He noted that arrangements were being made for the survey team to formally engage the Bole traditional council to secure such guarantees.The Deputy Minister also indicated that the government has committed approximately GH¢36 million to the Geological Survey Authority to undertake the nationwide exercise. He assured residents that once Bole is officially reinstated, he would ensure the survey begins in the area before extending to other parts of the country.
Supporting his remarks, the Deputy Director-General (Technical) of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, Maria Yusif, confirmed that Bole was part of the initial plan but had to be dropped at the last minute due to reports of unrest.She explained that the Authority’s work involves examining land areas for various mineral resources, including gold, granite, clay and limestone materials critical for construction, ceramics and cement production.
Maria Yusif noted that the Authority requires a safe and stable environment to carry out its mandate effectively. She, however, expressed optimism following assurances from traditional leaders that the area is peaceful.“With the assurances we have received from the chiefs, we are confident that our team can operate without challenges,” she said, adding that preparations are underway for the technical team to commence work in the area soon.
If all processes are successfully completed, the Geological Survey team is expected to begin operations in Bole within the coming weeks, paving the way for potential mineral development and economic opportunities in the area.Beneficiary communities include Sonyo, Dakurpe and Banda-Nkwanta.
Source:nkilgifm.com
