Ghana, with support from the UK Government, has commissioned and handed over 10 forest protection camps and two checkpoint accommodation facilities at the Oda River Forest Reserve to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, illegal logging and other threats to the country’s forests.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Director of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, Dr Joseph Boakye Esq., the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the facilities represent government’s broader commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental protection.

He noted that Ghana’s forests remain critical national assets that support livelihoods, biodiversity and climate resilience, stressing that government is determined to protect them through stronger enforcement and improved operational capacity.

“The protection of our forests requires commitment, vigilance and the right infrastructure for officers on the ground,” the Minister said.

He also commended development partners, traditional authorities and local communities for supporting forest governance initiatives in Ghana.

The Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr Hugh C. A. Brown, described the commissioning as a significant milestone in efforts to improve forest security and operational effectiveness across the country.

“These facilities will greatly improve monitoring, coordination and rapid response operations in our forest reserves,” he stated.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the United Kingdom, the Acting Deputy UK Commissioner to Ghana, Dr Terri Sarch, said the handover demonstrates the strong partnership between Ghana and the UK in promoting sustainable forest management.

She noted that through programmes such as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Forest Governance, Markets and Climate initiative, the UK has continued to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance and enforcement systems.