A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Ghana has issued a formal notice of intent to take legal action against the Government of Ghana over concerns regarding the protection of the country’s forests. This move comes amid growing fears that the government’s actions could lead to significant damage to globally significant biodiversity areas (GSBAs).
The coalition, comprising A Rocha Ghana, Tropenbos Ghana, Civic Response, Nature and Development Foundation, and EcoCare Ghana, expressed deep concern over the government’s recent decisions to reclassify certain forest reserves as suitable for logging and mining activities. These areas include the Subri River Forest Reserve and Krokosua Hills Forest Reserve, which are recognized for their ecological importance on a global scale.
“We have taken this critical step in accordance with Section 19(1) of the State Proceedings Act, 1998 (Act 555), to fulfill our constitutional duty to safeguard the natural environment, as enshrined in Article 41(k) of the 1992 Constitution.”
Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
The core of the coalition’s concern is the recent declassification of GSBAs within forest reserves, including the Subri River Forest Reserve and Krokosua Hills Forest Reserve. These areas have been opened up for logging through the awarding of Timber Utilization Contracts (TUCs) without adhering to the mandated legal processes.
The CSOs argued that these actions were in violation of the competitive bidding process. The issuance of TUCs bypassed the competitive bidding process required by Regulation 12 of the Timber Resources Management and Licensing Regulation, 2017 (LI 2254).
Additionally, the CSOs argued that these actions lack Parliamentary Ratification. According to Sections 5 and 9 of the Timber Resources Management Act, 1998 (Act 547), all such contracts must receive Parliamentary approval. The absence of such ratification renders the contracts legally void.
The coalition further demanded an injunction to prevent the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission from engaging in similar transactions without proper Parliamentary oversight and ratification.
Call for Government Reconsideration and Constructive Engagement
While recognizing the government’s developmental goals and the necessity of using natural resources for national progress, the CSOs emphasized that these activities must comply with Ghana’s constitutional and legal frameworks. They urge the government to annul the current contracts and adhere to legal protocols to prevent further environmental degradation.
The coalition also called for a dialogue with the government to resolve these issues constructively and in line with best practices in natural resource management. They reaffirm their commitment to sustainable forest management and urge all stakeholders to prioritize transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship in managing Ghana’s forest reserves.
GSBAs are designated areas within Ghana’s forest reserves that are recognized for their exceptional biodiversity and ecological significance. These areas are crucial for conservation efforts, serving as habitats for a myriad of species, some of which are endangered. The declassification and opening of these areas to logging and mining not only threaten biodiversity but also undermine global and national conservation efforts.
The CSOs’ decision to pursue legal action highlights the tension between development and conservation in Ghana. This move is seen as a critical step to ensure that environmental laws are respected and that Ghana’s rich natural heritage is preserved for future generations. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for how natural resources are managed in Ghana and potentially in other parts of Africa.
The coalition remains hopeful that the government will reconsider its actions and collaborate with civil society to uphold the principles of sustainable development and environmental protection.
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