Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Damango, recently appeared before the Assurance Committee of Parliament to discuss the progress and challenges related to the government’s commitments, particularly concerning the security and preservation of the Achimota Forest.
This meeting was convened to provide updates on assurances, promises, and commitments made on the Floor of Parliament and the progress towards achieving them. His appearance also comes amid growing concerns about the forest’s vulnerability to criminal activities and environmental degradation.
“The government is dedicated to ensuring that the Achimota Forest remains a safe and protected area. The Forestry Commission has implemented robust measures to safeguard the forest.
“These measures include recruiting additional forest guards tasked with patrolling the forest to deter and prevent criminal activities.”
Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP and Minister of Lands and Natural Resources
The Minister’s appearance before the committee was particularly pertinent following concerns raised by the MP for Okaikwei North, Hon. Theresa Lady Awuni. On August 2, 2021, Hon. Awuni inquired about the Ministry’s plans to fence the Achimota Forest to mitigate criminal attacks on nearby residents and motorists.
In response, Hon. Jinapor outlined the steps taken to address these security concerns, which include logistical support to the Achimota Police Station to enhance security around the forest area.
The Minister elaborated on the support provided to local law enforcement, highlighting the collaboration between the Forestry Commission and the Achimota Police Station.
This partnership has facilitated the provision of essential logistics, aiding in the improved security of the forest and its surroundings. Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the adequacy of the resources available to the police.
Hon. Jinapor noted, “The Forestry Commission has provided some logistical support to the Achimota Police Station to improve the security situation around the Achimota Forest.”
This support is intended to empower the police to conduct more effective patrols and respond swiftly to any incidents within the forest enclave.
Chairman’s Observations and Concerns
Despite the Minister’s optimistic outlook, Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Chairman of the Assurance Committee, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the current security measures.
“The Achimota Police Station still has one pickup, five motorbikes—three from the Ghana Police Service and two provided by the Forestry Commission. With this, you can imagine how our dedicated men and women in uniform are going to patrol the forest enclave.”
Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Chairman of the Assurance Committee
Hon. Okudjeto Ablakwa’s comments underscore the challenges faced by the police in maintaining effective security with limited resources.
In addition to security measures, the Minister highlighted the Ministry’s broader environmental policies, particularly the emphasis on afforestation and reforestation. He praised the Green Ghana Day initiative, which has significantly contributed to tree-planting efforts within the Achimota Forest and other areas.
“Ghana’s rate of deforestation has declined,” Hon. Jinapor stated, attributing this positive trend to the government’s proactive measures in tree planting and forest conservation.
The discourse during the committee session highlighted both the progress made and the challenges that persist in securing the Achimota Forest.
While the government’s efforts in afforestation and logistical support are commendable, the need for more substantial resources and support for local law enforcement remains critical.
The Minister’s appearance before the Assurance Committee underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to secure and preserve the Achimota Forest. While the Forestry Commission’s initiatives show promise, the Chairman’s observations highlight critical gaps in the current security arrangements.
As the debate continues, the need for comprehensive solutions that address both environmental conservation and security concerns becomes increasingly apparent. The government’s ability to balance these priorities will be crucial in determining the future of the Achimota Forest and similar protected areas across Ghana.
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