The Government of Ghana, with support from the United Kingdom, has commissioned 10 forest protection camps and two checkpoint accommodation facilities at the Oda River Forest Reserve to boost efforts against illegal mining, 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 form part of government’s wider commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental protection.
He noted that Ghana’s forests remain vital national resources that support livelihoods, biodiversity, and climate resilience, stressing that government is determined to strengthen enforcement measures and improve operational capacity to protect them.
“The protection of our forests requires commitment, vigilance and the right infrastructure for officers on the ground,” the Minister stated.
Mr Buah also praised development partners, traditional authorities, and local communities for their continued support toward forest governance and conservation efforts in the country.
The Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Hugh C. A. Brown, described the commissioning as a major step in improving forest security and enhancing operational efficiency within forest reserves.
“These facilities will greatly improve monitoring, coordination and rapid response operations in our forest reserves,” he said.
Representing the United Kingdom, Acting Deputy UK Commissioner to Ghana, Terri Sarch, said the project reflects the strong partnership between Ghana and the UK in promoting sustainable forest management.
She explained that through initiatives such as the Forest Governance, Markets and Climate programme under the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the UK continues to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance and enforcement systems.