Mining

A Rocha Ghana to government: Secure existing forests before planting new tree seedlings

Gh Extractives June 5, 2024

Forest Reserve

A Rocha Ghana, an environmental non-governmental organization has said government must secure existing forests before embarking on any activities to plant new tree seedlings.

The advice comes on the back of this years celebration of the World Environment Day celebrated annually on 5 June.

This years celebration is on the theme “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”

Government is expected to plant 10 million tree seedlings as part of this years Green Ghana Day initiative.

A statement issued by Arocha Ghana on Wednesday (5 June) further called on government to repeal the LI 2462 which allows for mining in forest reserves.

“RepealingLI 2462, which practically opens up all our forest reserves for Immediate steps must be taken to suspend all mining concessions in these vital life supporting ecosystems.

“Acting swiftly to restore our water bodies and ensure quality water supply for all. As we approach Green Ghana Day on June 7th, a day meant to contribute to greening Ghana, it is important to remember that before planting new trees, we must first secure existing forests.”

“Our forests and waterbodies play a critical role in stopping the spread of desertification and contributing to Ghana’s drought resilience,” the Arocha Ghana statement said.

Wed 2014 Arocha Ghana Press… by Fred Dzakpata

Reporting by Fred Dzakpata in Accra