The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to intensifying efforts to protect Ghana’s forest reserves from illegal mining, illegal logging and other environmental crimes.

His assurance was delivered on his behalf by the Board Chairman of the Forestry Commission, Isaac Essien Esq., during the inauguration and handing over of newly constructed forest protection camps and checkpoint accommodation facilities for the Forestry Commission.

The facilities were provided with support from the United Kingdom Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The ceremony took place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Oda River Forest Reserve near Numereso in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Isaac Essien described the project as a significant boost to Ghana’s forest conservation efforts and the operational capacity of the Forestry Commission in tackling environmental crimes.

He expressed appreciation to the UK Government for its continued support in strengthening forest governance and conservation in Ghana.

According to the Minister’s statement, the new camps and checkpoints will enhance monitoring and enforcement operations within forest reserves and improve the ability of security agencies to respond quickly to illegal activities.

The address highlighted ongoing threats to Ghana’s forests, including illegal mining (galamsey), illegal logging, unlawful farming and encroachment into protected areas.

“Our forestry sector is under severe siege. Illegal mining is polluting our vital water bodies while illegal logging poses serious threats to our survival,” the statement said.

It further warned that continued destruction of forest reserves threatens biodiversity, climate resilience and the livelihoods of communities that depend on forest resources.

The Minister stressed the need for collective action involving government institutions, traditional authorities, local communities, security agencies and development partners to protect the country’s natural resources.

He also noted that effective forest protection requires operational presence within forest zones rather than remote coordination from offices, hence the need for the newly constructed facilities.

The Minister commended Forestry Commission staff for their dedication despite operational challenges and acknowledged the support of development partners and security agencies in the fight against environmental degradation.

The event was attended by the Acting UK High Commissioner to Ghana, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Members of Parliament, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives, officials of the Forestry Commission, representatives of security agencies, development partners and traditional leaders, including the Omanhene of Bekwai, Nana Osei Kwadwo Ababio.

The newly commissioned facilities are expected to strengthen enforcement in protected forest zones and support government’s broader efforts to restore degraded forests and protect Ghana’s environment for future generations.