Illegal activities threatening forest reserves in Navrongo – Forest District Manager
While acknowledging that population growth continues to exert pressure on land and natural resources, Boamey cautioned that it should not serve as an excuse to destroy forest reserves.
The Navrongo Forest District Manager, George Boamey, has raised concerns over increasing threats to forest reserves within his jurisdiction, attributing the situation to illegal human activities.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Tuesday, August 26, Boamey disclosed that forest reserves in the Kassena Nankana Municipality, Kassena Nankana West, and the Bulsa North and South Districts are under pressure from activities such as gravel winning, illegal tree cutting, and the unauthorised sale of portions of reserve lands.
“Some of the reserves are being threatened. I have recorded three offences in one of the reserves, gravel mining, illegal cutting of trees, and attempts to demarcate land for sale,” he lamented.
While acknowledging that population growth continues to exert pressure on land and natural resources, Boamey cautioned that it should not serve as an excuse to destroy forest reserves. He warned that continued harmful practices could have dire consequences for both current and future generations.
He reiterated the Forestry Division’s commitment to working with stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, to protect the reserves. “Forest reserves are not meant for farming and other activities, and we will collaborate with relevant authorities to safeguard them.” He stressed.
Prince Pascal Agro, the Manager of the Navrongo Forest Range, who also featured on the programme, revealed that the Division undertakes regular monitoring to mitigate threats such as bushfires.
“We have forest guards who are responsible for these reserves, and they patrol frequently to ensure proper monitoring. Even when fire breaks out, they step in quickly to put it out.” Agro explained.
Both officials appealed to the public to adopt the culture of tree planting and nurturing as part of efforts to preserve the environment and restore degraded areas.
Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | David Adapuna
