The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the redevelopment of Appiate, a community devastated by a mining explosives disaster in 2022.

During a visit to the area, the Minister assured residents that plans are underway to commence the third phase of the redevelopment project. He revealed that out of a total of GHS112 million mobilised through the Appiate Support Fund, GHS60 million has already been used to complete Phases I and II of the reconstruction.

He explained that the remaining GHS52 million will be allocated to the third phase, pending the finalisation of land issues with local chiefs.

“When I became a minister, President Mahama gave me one instruction, that is to ensure that all outstanding projects in Appiate are completed. The donations on the list are a lot. The money we had in total was GHS112 million. So far, we have spent roughly GHS60 million for Phases I and II.

“GHS52 million is left. We were asked when we will resume work. Once the land issues are sorted, we will commence,” he stated.

The Appiate Support Fund was established in response to the tragic explosion that occurred in 2022 when a truck transporting explosives for mining activities was involved in an accident in the town.

The incident claimed dozens of lives and left over a hundred others injured. The explosion completely razed the community, prompting the then government to set up the fund to support reconstruction efforts.

So far, the Fund has received millions of cedis in donations from individuals, institutions, and corporate bodies, all aimed at rebuilding Appiate and restoring livelihoods.