Ghana, with support from the UK government, has commissioned and handed over 10 forest protection camps and two checkpoint accommodation facilities at the Oda River Forest Reserve to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, logging and other threats to the country’s forests.
The facilities are aimed at improving forest security, monitoring and rapid response operations within forest reserves.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Isaac Essien Esq., said the project reflects government’s commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental protection.
He stressed that Ghana’s forests remain important national assets that support livelihoods, biodiversity and climate resilience.
“The protection of our forests requires commitment, vigilance and the right infrastructure for officers on the ground,” the Minister stated.
He also commended development partners, traditional authorities and local communities for supporting forest governance efforts in the country.
Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown, described the commissioning as a major step toward improving operational effectiveness and forest protection nationwide.
“These facilities will greatly improve monitoring, coordination and rapid response operations in our forest reserves,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the United Kingdom, Acting Deputy UK Commissioner to Ghana, Dr. Terri Sarch, said the handover demonstrates the strong partnership between Ghana and the UK in promoting sustainable forest management.
She noted that through programmes such as the UK’s Forest Governance, Markets and Climate initiative, the UK continues to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance and enforcement systems.
