A Rocha Ghana, an environmental NGO, has disputed recent statements by Samuel Jinapor, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, regarding the country’s forest reserves.
In a parliamentary address on February 23, Jinapor asserted that the ecological integrity of Ghana’s forest reserves had been largely maintained. However, A Rocha Ghana argues that this claim contradicts observable evidence and public information.
The NGO’s statement underscores the significant damage caused by illegal mining, or “galamsey,” and unlawful logging activities that remain unaddressed. A Rocha Ghana contends that these ongoing issues render the Minister’s assurances about preserving ecological integrity implausible.
“The Minister stated that the ecological integrity of Ghana’s Forest Reserves has largely been maintained. This is a moot point,” A Rocha Ghana’s statement reads. The group points to severe reserve damage, including Krokosua, Sui River, and Tano Suraw Extension, with several areas reported as active galamsey sites as recently as mid-January.
Field assessments by A Rocha Ghana indicate that the Forestry Commission continues to face challenges in managing illegal activities, needing more logistical and operational support.
Jinapor also cited the government’s 2021 ban on mining near water bodies and forest reserves as evidence of progress. Yet, A Rocha Ghana highlights that the Minerals Commission issued several mining licenses in 2022 and 2023 for areas overlapping critical water bodies, worsening the damage.
Rivers such as Ankobra, Pra, Tano, and Ofin are reportedly experiencing severe pollution, affecting local health and agriculture, with an increased prevalence of kidney problems linked to contaminated water sources.
A Rocha Ghana calls for clarity on the government’s claims about “cordoning off all Forest Reserves” and urges action to address illegal mining and restore affected areas.
