Ghana commissions 10 forest protection camps to tackle illegal mining and logging

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, logging and other threats to the country’s forests.

In a speech read on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Isaac Essien Esq., said the facilities represent the 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 the 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.

Mr Buah 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, 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 UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) Forest Governance, Markets and Climate initiative, the UK has continued to support Ghana in strengthening forest governance and enforcement systems.