The Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape (CCAL) has congratulated the newly appointed Minister for Environment, Science and Technology,. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, and urged her to prioritise the protection of the Atewa Forest Reserve.
CCAL recalled that Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings supported calls for the long-term protection of Atewa Forest during the launch of the Atewa Forest Centenary Celebration and Green Atewa Festival at the Okyenhene Palace in Kyebi on January 5, 2026.
The group said it expects the minister to build on that position by supporting the proposed elevation of Atewa Forest to National Park status and strengthening efforts to tackle illegal mining and other activities threatening the forest.
CCAL said it submitted a petition to Parliament’s Select Committee on Petitions on May 22, 2026, calling for urgent measures to secure the long-term protection of the forest, including its proposed upgrade to National Park status.
The organisation also urged the minister to work with Parliament, traditional authorities, communities, government agencies and conservation organisations to protect Atewa’s biodiversity and water resources.
CCAL said the continued degradation of the forest could have implications for water security, livelihoods, food security, biodiversity and climate resilience.
The group expressed its readiness to collaborate with the ministry and other stakeholders to advance efforts to protect Atewa Forest as part of Ghana’s natural heritage.
