The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Upper Denkyira East in the Central Region, Mr. George Coleman, has proposed that all lands reclaimed from illegal mining activities be handed over to the government to support its flagship programmes, particularly in agriculture and job creation.

Speaking during an interview on the Ghana Yensom morning show on Accra 100.5 FM with host Otafrigya Kwesi Apea-Apreku, Mr. Coleman emphasised that lands damaged by irresponsible mining should be repurposed for productive ventures such as the government's poultry farming, plantation projects, and cocoa seed nursing projects.

He urged traditional leaders to collaborate with the government by releasing such lands for initiatives like the Nko Nkiti Nkiti project, the plantation project, which he believes can bring immense benefits to mining communities.

According to the MCE, turning these reclaimed lands into productive agricultural zones will help create sustainable jobs for the youth and restore economic vitality in the affected areas.

Mr. Coleman stressed that handing over the lands for government programmes is a meaningful way for chiefs and stakeholders to give back to the community.

He assured that the Assembly has capable personnel to manage and cultivate the lands effectively for the benefit of the community.

In addition, he appealed to philanthropists and development partners to support the Assembly in constructing a kindergarten for the people of Jerusalem, a community within the municipality.

He noted that the absence of an early childhood education facility forces young children to walk long distances to school, which poses a major challenge for families.