Judith Adjobah Blay, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company, has raised an alarm about illegal mining operations in the Akango area of the Nzema East Municipality in the Western Region.
She stressed that these activities are significantly jeopardising the national gas pipeline, which is essential for transporting lean gas from the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant to Kumasi for power generation.
In an interview following her visit to the impacted site on August 2, 2025, Madam Blay cautioned that any damage to this highly flammable pipeline could lead to disastrous outcomes for both the nation’s energy supply and the safety of surrounding communities.
She reassured the public that immediate measures are being implemented to safeguard the area and deter further incursions by illegal miners.
In her condemnation of these unlawful activities, the Ghana Gas CEO also urged local communities to play an active role in protecting the gas infrastructure.
Initially constructed in 2012 to deliver lean gas from Atuabo through Esiama and Prestea to Kumasi for electricity generation, the pipeline is now at risk due to the surge of illegal mining activities threatening this crucial infrastructure.
