Numereso: The Governments of Ghana and the United Kingdom have officially inaugurated a total of 12 newly constructed forest protection facilities, consisting of 10 forest protection camps and two operational checkpoint camps, handed over to the Ghana Forestry Commission. This initiative aims to bolster efforts against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, and illegal logging activities.
According to Ghana Web, the facilities were commissioned during a ceremony held at Numereso in the Oda River Forest Reserve, located in the Ashanti Region. This effort is part of the broader UK-Ghana Forest Governance Partnership, which was launched in December of the previous year. Speaking at the event, Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown, Executive of the Forestry Commission, emphasized that the new infrastructure signifies a significant shift in forest protection strategy. The focus is shifting from isolated patrols to coordinated, on-site security operations within forest reserves, showcasing the government's commitment to more effectively combat environmental crimes such as illegal mining and logging.
Previously, forest guards faced challenges as they operated from rented accommodations in nearby communities, patrolling extensive forest areas with limited logistical support. The new strategy involves stationing personnel within designated forest reserves to form rapid-response teams capable of quickly addressing illegal activities. Baseline assessments have indicated that illegal mining and logging have severely degraded thousands of hectares of protected forest reserves across several regions, including Ashanti, Western, Western North, Ahafo, and Bono. Authorities have observed that illegal operators have evolved into organized networks, utilizing advanced communication tools, heavy machinery, and armed resistance.
To counter these developments, the new strategy aims to position officers closer to vulnerable areas to disrupt illegal supply routes and enhance surveillance capabilities. Additionally, two tactical checkpoint camps have been established in the Bono East and Savannah regions to monitor timber movement and prevent illegal exports. Dr. Brown noted that the stationed officers would be able to respond swiftly to incidents such as illegal logging, galamsey, encroachment, and wildfires, thereby reducing environmental damage and improving operational efficiency.
Despite these advancements, Dr. Brown highlighted ongoing challenges, including a shortage of over 2,500 Resource Guards. He underscored the need for urgent recruitment, improved logistics, and better welfare for frontline staff. A multi-stakeholder Working Group has been established to develop long-term conservation strategies. This group involves the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Ghana Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, local government authorities, and traditional leaders.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by several notable officials, including the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah; the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene; and the Acting Deputy UK High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr. Terri Sarch, among others.