Ghana commissions 10 Forest Protection Camps to boost fight against illegal mining and logging

Ghana has commissioned and handed over 10 forest protection camps and two checkpoint accommodation facilities at the Oda River Forest Reserve as part of intensified efforts to combat illegal mining, illegal logging, and other environmental threats affecting the country’s forest reserves.

The initiative, supported by the United Kingdom government, is aimed at strengthening forest security operations, improving surveillance, and enhancing the operational capacity of officers responsible for protecting Ghana’s natural resources.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, whose speech was delivered by the Director of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, Joseph Boakye, described the facilities as a major step toward safeguarding the country’s forests and preserving the environment for future generations.

He emphasised that Ghana’s forests continue to play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, livelihoods, water resources, climate resilience, and national development, adding that the government remains committed to ensuring their long-term sustainability through stronger enforcement and improved infrastructure.

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

Mr Buah further highlighted the growing threats posed by illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, illegal chainsaw operations, and encroachment on forest reserves, noting that the newly commissioned facilities would help improve monitoring and rapid response efforts in vulnerable forest zones.

He also commended development partners, traditional authorities, local communities, and security agencies for their continued support in strengthening forest governance and environmental protection initiatives across Ghana.

The Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Hugh C. A. Brown, described the handover as a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance forest security and improve operational effectiveness within protected reserves.

According to him, the camps and checkpoint facilities will provide better accommodation and working conditions for frontline officers tasked with protecting forest reserves from illegal activities.

“These facilities will greatly improve monitoring, coordination and rapid response operations in our forest reserves,” Mr Brown said.

He added that the Forestry Commission remains focused on adopting modern strategies and partnerships to curb environmental degradation and preserve Ghana’s forest resources.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the United Kingdom government, Acting Deputy UK Commissioner to Ghana, Terri Sarch, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s environmental sustainability agenda and forest governance reforms.

She explained that the handover reflects the strong bilateral partnership between Ghana and the United Kingdom in promoting sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate action.

Ms Sarch noted that through initiatives such as the Forest Governance, Markets and Climate Programme under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the UK has continued to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance systems, improving enforcement mechanisms, and combating illegal exploitation of natural resources.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that illegal mining and logging activities continue to destroy large portions of Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies, threatening ecosystems, agriculture, and rural livelihoods.

The newly commissioned facilities are therefore expected to boost the capacity of forest guards and security personnel in protecting the Oda River Forest Reserve and surrounding forest landscapes from further degradation.