The Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has called on traditional authorities, communities, and other stakeholders to collectively work together and intensify effort to protect the Atewa Forest Reserve which is a globally significant biodiversity area.
She said the Atewa Forest plays provides critical ecological services and climate mitigation intervention provides invaluable benefits to agriculture,water supply and human existence.
She made the call during the launch of the Atiwa Centenary Celebration and the Green Atiwa Forest Festival (GAFFES) in Akyem Kyebi.
The Minister noted that the Atewa Forest Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance, has over the past century supported environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of many communities within and beyond the region.
She stressed that the responsibility to safeguard the forest now lies with the present generation to ensure it remains intact for future generations.
Mrs. Awatey emphasized that protecting the forest requires unity, commitment, and responsible action, urging stakeholders to intensify conservation efforts and guard against activities that threaten the integrity of the reserve.
On his part, the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, expressed concern about the growing environmental degradation across the country, particularly the impact of illegal logging, illegal mining, and the pollution of water bodies.
He called on traditional leaders, policymakers, and communities to strengthen collaboration in addressing environmental destruction, noting that illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, continue to pose a serious threat to the Atewa Forest ecosystem and surrounding water sources.
According to the Okyenhene, the destruction of forest cover and contamination of rivers undermine livelihoods that depend on a healthy environment.
He stressed the need for firm political commitment, effective regulation, and sustainable livelihood alternatives to reduce dependence on harmful environmental practices.
He warned that failure to act decisively could result in long term consequences, including loss of biodiversity, environmental imbalance, and increased vulnerability to climate related challenges.
The Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman Rawlings, also called on Ghanaians to take personal and collective responsibility for protecting forest reserves, water bodies, and the environment.
She cautioned that deforestation and environmental neglect threaten humanity’s survival, emphasizing that protecting nature requires selflessness and a long-term outlook that prioritizes the wellbeing of future generations.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
