Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson is calling on Chiefs, community leaders, and assembly members in mining areas to collaborate with authorities. Together, they can identify illegal miners and participate in land restoration efforts, driving sustainable development and environmental protection. Meanwhile, Deputy CEO of the Forestry Commission Elikem Kotoko has proposed establishing forest clubs in Ghana’s seven forest zones to educate younger generations on conservation.
This initiative aims to promote sustainable forest management and protect the country’s natural resources. As Ghana champions Sustainable Development Goal 15, we’re reminded of its critical mission: protecting, restoring, and sustainably using terrestrial ecosystems. This goal is essential for the country’s survival and prosperity.
In the Western Region, illegal mining (galamsey) has ravaged forest reserves and ecosystems.
To address this, the Western Regional Coordinating Council has partnered with security agencies to plant 100 Royal Palms at the Naval Base, with plans to plant 3,000 trees in Subri Forest Reserve, under the World Environment Day theme “Restoring Degraded Landscapes”.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson called on Chiefs, community leaders, and assembly members in mining areas to join forces against illegal mining. He urged them to identify unauthorized miners and work together on land restoration initiatives, fostering sustainable development and environmental stewardship. “In the Western Region, the impact of small-scale mining (galamsey) on our forest reserves and lands is evident. To address this, I invite stakeholders, including miners, to partner with the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) and its partners to restore degraded land through tree planting, I urge Chiefs, community leaders, and assembly members in mining communities to help identify illegal miners and collaborate on land restoration efforts”, he stated.
Karpowership Ghana reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship, recognizing its collective responsibility to protect, preserve, and replenish the environment. As part of its mission to deliver reliable power, the company has integrated sustainability into its social investments. Over the past three years, Karpowership Ghana has taken deliberate steps to contribute to Ghana’s green recovery.
Sandra Amarquaye is the communications manager at Karpowership Ghana. She said, “Karpowership Ghana is proud to announce significant strides in its environmental stewardship. We’ve planted over 11,000 trees in strategic forest reserves nationwide, including the Chipa and Subri Forest Reserves. Building on this momentum, we’re planting an additional 3,000 trees, 100 at the Ghana Navy Base in Sekondi, where our power ship is docked, and 2,900 at the Subri Forest Reserve. This initiative is made possible through our partnership with the Ghana Navy, demonstrating the powerful intersection of defense and sustainability”.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, emphasized the need to establish forest clubs in the country’s seven forest zones. He believes this initiative will instill a culture of forest protection and preservation among younger generations, ensuring a sustainable future for Ghana’s natural resources. “Today’s tree planting holds a promise of shade, water, oxygen, and life. Let this moment catalyze sustained action, moving from commitment to tangible results. I challenge us all to nurture these trees, ensuring they grow and serve their purpose. To instill a culture of forest protection, we propose establishing forest clubs in Ghana’s seven major forest zones, targeting younger generations. This initiative, alongside existing programs like the Boys’ Brigade and Red Cross, can foster environmental stewardship.
Additionally, organizing forest festivals can promote tourism and economic benefits, underscoring the value of conservation. Let’s work together to protect our forests and reap the rewards of sustainability.” He spoke.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
