Ngbaripewura Moru has imposed a ban on tree felling, charcoal production, and farming activities around the Kpiri River, citing growing contamination of the sacred water body by chemicals and indiscriminate human activity.
Speaking on Spear FM’s morning show, Savannah Nde Super Morning Show, the Ngbaripewura Moru explained that the directive covers the stretch from SAGISS to Kpri, where the cutting down of trees is now strictly prohibited. He also announced a total ban on charcoal production within the area and on the operation of any “Dorma” machine in the community.
The traditional leader described the Kpiri River as a sacred river, revered and protected by the Ngbaripe clan of Damongo, who serve as Tindanas, or indigenous custodians of the land. He explained that the clan’s traditional responsibility includes performing sacrifices and appeasing the gods of Damongo to ensure peace and order on the land, free from abomination.
He recounted that in earlier years, farmers who lived close to the river took great care to protect it, allowing residents to fetch and drink directly from the Kpiri River without any form of purification. He said the water was clean and safe at the time because of the discipline and respect shown by those living around it.
However, the Ngbaripewura lamented that the activities of charcoal burners and some farmers engaging in improper farming practices around the river have since contaminated the water, leaving its surface visibly dirty and polluted.
He invoked the legacy of his predecessors, including Ngbaripewura Bokuro and Alhaji Fuseini, stressing that none of them ever allowed the river to be contaminated during their reign. He vowed that it would not happen under his leadership, declaring that he would not sit by and allow chainsaw operators who fell trees indiscriminately, or farmers engaged in harmful practices, to destroy the river.
The Ngbaripewura warned that if these activities are not halted, the Kpiri River risks drying up entirely, with dire consequences for the community and the environment.
He directed all farmers cultivating crops around the Kpiri water source to stop their activities immediately to protect the water body, and called on the general public to comply fully with the directive, warning that violators will be fined and dealt with according to the customs and tradition of the Damongo people.
