Ghana, with support from the United Kingdom government, has commissioned and handed over 10 forest protection camps and two checkpoint accommodation facilities at the Oda River Forest Reserve as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, illegal logging, and other threats to the country’s forests.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Director of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, Joseph Boakye, said the facilities reflect the government’s broader commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental protection.
He noted that Ghana’s forests remain vital national assets that support livelihoods, biodiversity, and climate resilience, stressing that the government is determined to safeguard them through stronger enforcement measures and improved operational capacity.
“The protection of our forests requires commitment, vigilance and the right infrastructure for officers on the ground,” the Minister said.
Mr Buah also commended development partners, traditional authorities, and local communities for their continued support for forest governance initiatives in Ghana.
The Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Hugh C. A. Brown, described the commissioning as a major milestone in efforts to enhance forest security and improve operational effectiveness nationwide.
“These facilities will greatly improve monitoring, coordination and rapid response operations in our forest reserves,” he stated.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the United Kingdom, the Acting Deputy UK Commissioner to Ghana, Terri Sarch, said the handover demonstrates the strong partnership between Ghana and the UK in promoting sustainable forest management.
She explained that through programmes such as the Forest Governance, Markets and Climate initiative of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the UK continues to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance and enforcement systems.
