GNFS warns of bush meat scarcity

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised concerns about the imminent scarcity of bush meat in the country, attributing the shortage to the rapid extinction of wild animals. According to the Assistant Divisional Officer Grade One (ADOI) and Bono Regional Public Relations Officer, Kwame Adomako, this issue is exacerbated by the ongoing dry season.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Sunyani, ADOI Adomako emphasized the importance of protecting wild animals during this period, stating, “We don’t hunt for bush meat in the dry seasons.” He reminded the public that the nationwide ban on group hunting during the dry season remains in force and urged everyone to help enforce it.

Under the PNDCL 229, there are legal consequences for those who engage in illegal hunting, with offenders facing prosecution. ADOI Adomako highlighted that the dry season is a time when wild animals breed, and hunting during this period disrupts their reproduction.

In addition to wildlife protection, ADOI Adomako warned of a potentially severe harmattan season, which typically occurs from late November to March. He advised farmers, palm wine tappers, and smokers to refrain from carrying naked flames into the bush to avoid fire outbreaks.

The GNFS is set to deploy a task force and fire volunteers into local communities to monitor and prevent fire incidents, and individuals found guilty of starting fires will face prosecution under Law 229.