Grand Kru County Superintendent Antoinette Worlee Nimely has raised concern over the growing threats of illegal mining and drug abuse, describing them as two of the county’s most pressing challenges and calling for a coordinated response from government institutions, traditional leaders, the media, and local communities.
Speaking in a special interview, Superintendent Nimely said Grand Kru’s vast forest reserves and difficult terrain have created favorable conditions for illegal mining activities, making it increasingly difficult for law enforcement agencies to monitor and suppress the illicit operations.
According to her, many miners operate deep within remote forest areas that are inaccessible to security personnel, limiting sustained enforcement efforts.
To address the situation, Nimely disclosed that the county administration has strengthened collaboration with town chiefs, paramount chiefs, and other traditional authorities to identify illegal mining sites, discourage unlawful activities, and promote the responsible management of the county’s natural resources.
She emphasized that while mining remains an important source of livelihood for many residents, operators must comply with environmentally responsible practices, including reclaiming mined-out land to prevent long-term ecological damage.
“We need to preserve our land. If people mine, they should do it properly and reclaim the land after mining,” Nimely said.
She warned that abandoned mining pits and excavated valleys continue to pose serious environmental and public safety risks, particularly to surrounding communities and future generations if restoration measures are not enforced.
The superintendent acknowledged ongoing joint security operations aimed at curbing illegal mining but noted that inadequate logistics and limited resources have hampered continuous monitoring of remote mining communities.
Nimely, however, welcomed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s proposal to establish a national task force to combat illegal mining, expressing confidence that the initiative would strengthen enforcement efforts in Grand Kru and other affected counties.
Beyond environmental concerns, Superintendent Nimely identified drug abuse among young people as an emerging social crisis requiring urgent and coordinated intervention.
She called on media institutions to play a more proactive role in educating the public about the dangers of substance abuse, describing the press as an indispensable partner in public awareness and prevention efforts.
“The fight against drugs is not one person’s responsibility. We need everyone’s support, especially the media, to help educate our young people,” she said.
Nimely stressed that tackling illegal mining and drug abuse requires a collective approach involving government agencies, security institutions, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, the media, and local residents.
She concluded that only sustained collaboration and public engagement will enable Grand Kru County to protect its natural resources, safeguard its youth, and promote sustainable development.
