The Mahama administration has restored full legal protection to the Achimota Forest following Cabinet’s approval of the revocation of Executive Instrument (E.I.) 144, as amended by E.I. 234, which had declassified portions of the forest reserve.
The decision, taken at Cabinet’s meeting on June 24, 2026, effectively returns the Achimota Forest to its original status as a protected Forest Reserve.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Presidency on Wednesday, July 15, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, said the move underscores government’s commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of critical ecological assets.
“Cabinet decision taken on the 24th of June 2026, to revoke Executive Instrument E.I 144 as amended by E.I 234, effectively ensuring that the Achimota Forest retains its original status as a Forest Reserve and providing ecological safety zone for Accra and its environs,” the Minister stated.
Mr. Buah explained that preserving the Achimota Forest is essential to maintaining an ecological safety zone for Accra and surrounding communities amid growing urbanisation pressures.
The Minister also outlined measures being implemented to strengthen oversight of the mining sector and curb illegal mining activities.
According to him, authorities have registered 4,347 pieces of earthmoving and mining equipment at the Tema Port, with more than 1,000 of them currently under active tracking as part of enhanced anti-galamsey monitoring efforts.
The initiative forms part of government’s broader strategy to improve transparency and accountability within the mining sector while intensifying the fight against illegal mining.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
