By: Ashiadey Dotse
The Chief Executive officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown has announced that Government of Ghana has successfully taken back control of the Asenayo Forest Reserve from illegal miners as part of government’s effort to stop illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, and to protect the country’s forests and rivers.
In a Facebook post by the Ministry of Lands and Natural resources, Dr. Brown praised the teamwork between the Forestry Commission, the police, the military, and other government agencies. Their joint operation was directed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
The Asenayo Forest Reserve had been heavily damaged by illegal mining activities. Now, the area has been fully secured and placed under government protection.
This is the eighth out of nine forest reserves marked as “red zones” that have been reclaimed from illegal miners.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, confirmed that seven other reserves had already been recovered through similar operations.
The government’s approach includes using intelligence to guide enforcement, involving local communities, and restoring the environment. Officials say this strategy is becoming a strong example of how to manage natural resources in a sustainable way.
With only one high-risk reserve left to reclaim, the Ministry has promised not to give up. A statement from the Ministry said:
“No forest land will be ceded to criminals. We are mobilizing all resources to reclaim the final target and ensure lasting protection for these critical ecosystems.”
