Amanzuri conservation project launched

Beyin (W/R), April 23, GNA - The Deputy Minister of Environment Science and Technology, Mr Lee Ocran, on Saturday has launched the Amanzuri Conservation and Integrated Development Project (ACID) at Beyin in the Western Region.

The two point five billion-cedi project seeks to contribute to the sustainable development of the Western Nzema Traditional Area and would be run as a partnership between the Traditional Council and the Ghana Wildlife Society.

The first phase include the construction of a canal, removal of vessia weed to enhance free movement of canoes and the development and improvement of the Nzulezo walkway to promote the tourism potential of the village built on stilts.

Mr Ocran said the Amanzuri catchment area, one of the largest strands of virgin swamp in Ghana possesses resources, which could be harnessed for the development of eco-tourism, acetic beauty and other occupational and income generating activities.

Mr Ocran said that the Amanzuri wetlands provide grounds for fishes to spawn and a nursery ground for marine and fresh water life as well as a Ramsar site for international migratory birds and water fowls.

He said that the government has taken measures to address the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, which leads to degradation of the environment to ensure growth of the economy.

In March 1988, the government initiated action for the preparation of the National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP), to address issues relating to the protection of the environment and better management of resources.

Mr Ocran said in a departure from the old policy of alienating communities from resource management, the new Forest and Wildlife Policy promotes public participation in the conservation of wildlife habitats as well as sharing the benefits and responsibilities.

In a speech read on his behalf, Mr Alexander Heldring, Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana said the project is an important aspect of Ghana's implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

He said the Dutch government is providing two point five billion cedis towards the project over the next two years because of the importance it attaches to the Amanzuri wetland as a natural ecosystem.