The Minister of Lands, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has expressed concern over the persistent destruction of Ghana's forest reserves by illegal miners. He specifically highlighted the Atiwa forest and other forests in the Eastern Region as being currently under attack by these illegal activities.
During the commissioning of an office complex for the Forestry Commission in the Eastern Region, Minister Jinapor emphasized the urgent need to address the issue and protect the forest reserves in the region.
He called for immediate action to rid the Atiwa forest and other forests of illegal miners, loggers, and other activities that pose a threat to the survival of these important natural resources.
“The Atiwa forest and various forests in the Eastern region are under attack from illegal miners and galamseyers,” Minister Jinapor stated. “Please rid these forest reserves of illegal miners and illegal loggers and other activities which threaten the survival of forest reserves in our country.”
The Minister assured the Forestry Commission that they would be provided with the necessary tools to combat this menace. He emphasized that no one would be exempt from prosecution, regardless of their status or position.
“You, the Forestry Commission, have our full support. Whether they are high-ranking individuals or ordinary citizens, whether they are political leaders or not, your work is to ensure that all forest reserves in this country are protected,” Minister Jinapor affirmed.
Furthermore, he pledged the government's commitment to equip the Forestry Commission with bulletproof vests and other weapons to aid in their efforts.
