Residents of Asubuasu in the Sekyere Central District of the Ashanti Region are protesting the activities of nomadic herdsmen in the community that has since destroyed vast farmlands.
The aggrieved residents, who are primarily farmers, have over the years endured what they describe as “torture” from the herders invading their source of livelihoods.
The sway animals are said to have polluted the only water source in the area, forcing residents to purify water collected from the same source with chemicals like alum.
Residents of Asubuasu took to the streets of the community clad in red head gear and armbands, wielding placards to vent their displeasure at the rampant destruction of their farmlands by herders.
The community is known to be one of the food baskets in Sekyere Central, producing various foodstuffs like cassava, plantains, and other crops.
The aggrieved residents recount their ordeal with the nomadic herdsmen.
“The nomadic herdsmen have laid siege on our farms and community. When they meet you, they will signal their animals to attack you. Until they realize you are nearing your death, then they will signal them to stop,” an aggrieved resident claimed.
Another added: “Yesterday, I went to the farm to get some firewood to cook, but the herders attacked me. My foot was injured by a nail”.
The residents allege school children are frightened to go to school.
“The kids are scared to go to school. We have to load the students in a motorcycle to convey them to school,” one of the protesters said.
The only stream in the area used by residents for various domestic chores is now heavily polluted, partly attributable to the animals drinking from the stream.
“This alum is what we use to purify the dirty water for use. My kids don’t know how to go to the farms. They’re scared,” a resident worriedly said.
Three persons were reportedly picked up by the Police after killing some animals owned by the herdsmen when the flock encroached on their lands.
The residents are demanding the release of their colleagues and calling for an end to the herdsmen’s activities in the community.
“On Saturday, we heard the news the three have been arrested by the Police. The local authorities are aware of what’s happening here. How do you arrest these innocent ones,” George Dapaah, leader of the aggrieved farmers, questioned.
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