Tropenbos Ghana, a forest-focused organization, has called for urgent actions to address critical issues hindering Sustainable Forest Management in Ghana. In a statement signed by Mr. Boakye Twumasi Ankra, Project Manager, Tropenbos Ghana, the organization highlighted key concerns and demanded immediate attention from the government.
The statement emphasized the need for the repeal of the Environmental Protection Regulation, L.I 2462, which poses threats to forest reserves by allowing mining activities regardless of their protected status. Tropenbos Ghana expressed concern that such regulations undermine efforts towards innovative solutions for Forest Management.
Furthermore, the organization urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to reverse directives allowing timber harvesting in Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs), emphasizing the importance of protecting endangered species and sensitive forest ecosystems.
Transparency and accountability regarding de-gazetted portions of the Achimota forest reserve were also called for, urging the Ministry to provide clear information to the public.
Tropenbos Ghana stressed the importance of enacting the Wildlife Resources Management Bill to consolidate laws related to wildlife and protected areas, advocating for the President's prompt assent to the bill.
Additionally, the organization encouraged the integration of technology and internet-based solutions into forest management, highlighting the need for collaboration between the Forestry Commission and relevant service providers for effective monitoring and management of forests and tree resources.
Lastly, Tropenbos Ghana urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to conduct a comprehensive assessment of tree performance under the Green Ghana Day initiative, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the initiative's impact on forest restoration efforts.
The statement underscored the critical role of immediate actions in addressing forest sector challenges and promoting sustainable forest management practices in Ghana.
