Edward Akwasi Akuoko (Edward Akuoko), the former General Manager of Akonta Mining Company Limited, has publicly stated that Bernard Antwi Boasiako (popularly known as Chairman Wontumi), the owner of the company and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), directed mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without the necessary permits. Akuoko made these claims in media interviews on November 5, 2025, after the Attorney General withdrew all charges against him on November 3, 2025, in exchange for him becoming a state prosecution witness in the ongoing case against Wontumi and Akonta Mining. http://newsghana.com.gh

Key Details from Akuoko’s Statements

• He admitted that Akonta Mining “failed to complete necessary documentation” for operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, and this will form part of his upcoming testimony.
• Akuoko explicitly alleged: “Chairman Wontumi directed us to move in and mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without a mining permit.”
• He decided to testify out of “personal interest,” citing advice that Wontumi might receive a presidential pardon if convicted (due to political connections), while he (Akuoko) could be “abandoned” and jailed.
• He also claimed NPP leaders showed solidarity only toward Wontumi during their arrests, ignoring him.
• Akuoko insisted he would “speak the truth” and not lie against Wontumi, emphasizing his decision was about doing “what is right” rather than betrayal.

Background on the Case

Wontumi, Akonta Mining, and others (including two at large) face allegations of mining without a license, felling trees in a forest reserve without authorization, erecting structures illegally, and causing environmental damage to over 13 hectares of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve (including polluting the Tano River) in 2022.

Court Updates: Two related cases are ongoing.

1.  (Samreboi concession) is adjourned to November 12, 2025.
2. The Tano Nimiri case to December 4, 2025.

Wontumi has pleaded not guilty and is on bail (GHS 15 million for one case, GHS 10 million for the other).

Historical Context:

• Akonta Mining’s license was revoked in April 2025 over illegal operations.
• Wontumi has denied wrongdoing, claiming the company halted operations years ago and accusing political targeting.
• His lawyer says Akuoko’s testimony won’t significantly impact the case.http://yen.com.gh

This development has sparked widespread discussion on socials and in Ghanaian media, with many viewing it as a major blow to Wontumi amid the country’s anti-galamsey (illegal mining) efforts.

Akuoko has not yet testified in court; his full evidence is expected in upcoming hearings. The case highlights ongoing tensions over political figures’ involvement in mining and environmental destruction in Ghana.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier concluded his three-day state visit to Ghana with a poignant courtesy call on Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, at the historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

The meeting symbolized the deepening cultural and diplomatic ties between Germany and Ghana, while Steinmeier’s earlier announcement of over €65 million (approximately GH¢823 million) in development aid underscored Berlin’s commitment to sustainable partnership in West Africa. The visit, marking the 50th anniversary of bilateral development cooperation, highlighted themes of mutual respect, youth empowerment, and economic growth amid global challenges.

Key Moments

Manhyia Palace- Opemsuo Radio 

• Courtesy Call at Manhyia Palace: Steinmeier was warmly received by the Asantehene in a traditional ceremony, where Otumfuo Osei Tutu II gifted him a carved stool bearing the Asante emblem—a profound symbol of honor and enduring friendship in Akan culture. The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations, with emphasis on cultural exchanges, education, and Germany’s role in supporting Ghana’s stability as a regional hub. Steinmeier, speaking through an interpreter, praised the Asantehene’s wisdom and Ghana’s vibrant heritage, noting how such engagements foster “human connections that outlast formal diplomacy.” The event drew widespread acclaim on social media, with videos capturing the regal welcome and exchanges going viral among Ghanaian users.

• Aid Pledge Announcement: During a joint press briefing with Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House, Steinmeier revealed Germany’s renewed €65 million commitment for 2025 development cooperation, pending Bundestag approval. The funds target renewable energy transitions, youth skills training in health, pharmaceuticals, and digital sectors, and vocational programs to create jobs. “Ghana is an ideal partner—educated, English-speaking, and strategically located,” Steinmeier said, highlighting last year’s €2.5 billion trade volume and Germany’s support for 200 new nurses annually via a Kumasi-based school starting in 2026.

• Kumasi Engagements (Morning): Before the palace visit, Steinmeier performed a sod-cutting for expansions at the Kumasi Technical Institute, a German-funded vocational hub launching new programs next year. He also toured the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), engaging with staff, alumni, and students on collaborative research in health and technology, and visited the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research to explore joint ventures in infectious diseases.

• Arrival and Accra Highlights (November 2-3): Steinmeier landed in Accra on November 2, greeted by Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and German Ambassador Frederik Landshöft. The itinerary included a Guard of Honour, closed-door talks with Mahama on ECOWAS stability and AfCFTA opportunities, a wreath-laying at Kwame Nkrumah’s Mausoleum, and a state luncheon. A business delegation from Germany—spanning infrastructure, medtech, and satellites—accompanied him to scout investments.

Broader Context and Impact

This visit reinforces Germany-Ghana ties established since 1957, with Berlin viewing Accra as a key ally in Sub-Saharan Africa’s fastest-growing economy. Steinmeier emphasized equality in partnerships, countering narratives of aid dependency by focusing on trade and skills transfer. The Asantehene meeting added a cultural layer, bridging Europe’s industrial prowess with Ghana’s rich traditions, and was seen as a nod to decentralized diplomacy involving traditional leaders.

Stats Overview: Ghana-Germany Partnership Snapshot

The pledge awaits parliamentary nod but signals robust momentum. As Steinmeier departed Tuesday evening, his visit leaves a legacy of goodwill, with follow-up consultations planned. For Ghana, it’s a timely boost amid economic recovery; for Germany, a strategic foothold in Africa’s renaissance.