“Our Community Is Suffering” — Bibiani Old Town Assembly Member Calls for Action on Blasting, Poor Roads, and Rising Crime
Mubbarik Zakaria highlights blasting, poor roads, insecurity, and calls for community resettlement
- Frequent mining blasts continue to affect residents, prompting calls for the resettlement of the community
- The Assembly Member criticises the poor road network and says the mining company has failed to fulfil repeated promises to fix the roads
- Despite the concerns, he commends the company for awarding scholarships to students and reiterates his commitment to the welfare of the community
The Assembly Member for Bibiani Old Town Electoral Area in the Western North Region, Mubbarik Zakaria, has called for urgent intervention to address the growing challenges confronting residents, particularly those linked to mining activities in the area.
Speaking to Kwame Tanko and Franko the Hitter during the Lawson Media Community Engagement in Bibiani , Mr. Zakaria said residents continue to face several difficulties, with blasting operations by the mining company being one of the biggest concerns.
According to him, the frequent blasting has created numerous problems for the community, affecting the daily lives of residents and strengthening the need for a comprehensive resettlement plan for those living close to the mining site.
He also raised concerns over increasing cases of drug abuse and robbery in parts of the community, describing them as major security threats that require immediate attention from stakeholders.
Another issue highlighted by the Assembly Member was the poor state of roads within the Bibiani township. He said the mining company has repeatedly been engaged to help improve the road network but has failed to honour its commitments despite several discussions with community leaders.
Mr. Zakaria disclosed that he has served as the Assembly Member for Bibiani Old Town for the past eight years, making him the longest-serving Assembly Member in the area’s history since 1992. He said his commitment has always been to champion the welfare and development of the community.
While expressing disappointment over some of the company’s shortcomings, he acknowledged that the mining firm has also made meaningful contributions to the community. He praised the company for providing scholarships to deserving students, describing the initiative as a positive investment in the future of the youth.
The Assembly Member reaffirmed his dedication to the people of Bibiani Old Town, stressing that his priority remains improving the living conditions of residents through continuous engagement with all relevant stakeholders.
