The Western Regional head of the Minerals Commission, Francis Annobil Jnr., is urging the public to speak up and report any instances of irresponsible transportation of explosives and ammonium nitrate.
Speaking at the Explosives and Ammonium Nitrate Management workshop in Takoradi on Wednesday, March 05, 2025, he warned that the region faces a heightened risk of explosions, surpassing other parts of the country.
Mr Annobil noted that the Commission has learned valuable lessons from the Appiatse incident, which has informed their strategies to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In the wake of the catastrophic Appiatse and Anto Aboso explosions in the Western Region, the quarry and mining industries have been compelled to prioritize the safe handling and management of explosives and ammonium nitrate.
To address this pressing concern, the Western Regional office of the Minerals Commission has initiated a stakeholder engagement with transporters, focusing on the paramount importance of adhering to strict safety protocols for the transportation, storage, and handling of explosives.
Speaking on the dangers of transporting explosive and ammonium nitrate at an engagement, Mr. Annobil, warned of the heightened risks associated with transporting explosives and ammonium nitrate, stressing that the Western Region is more vulnerable to explosions compared to other regions.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of reckless transportation, emphasizing that the Commission has gained invaluable insights from the Appiatse tragedy.
Western Regional Chief Inspector of Mines, Desmond Boahene, outlined the statutory regulations governing the transportation of explosives, highlighting the severe consequences and penalties that would be imposed on individuals.
Author: Dorothy Donkor
