The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has warned that Ghana’s health is under threat due to the destruction of forest reserves, particularly from illegal mining activities.
Speaking at the 2026 World Wildlife Day celebration in the Central Region, under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage, and Livelihoods,” Mr. Buah urged Ghanaians to protect the country’s forests.
He revealed that over 1,000 traditional medicines have been lost as a result of illegal mining and stressed that continued forest destruction poses serious public health risks.
The Ministry plans to plant more than 30,000 trees this year and called on citizens to embrace the national “One Child, One Tree” policy, encouraging students to replace trees lost to deforestation.
“Continued loss of our forests and wildlife could have dire consequences for our people,” Mr.Buah said, reaffirming President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to safeguarding lands, water bodies, and forests.
He emphasized that protecting forests is not just an environmental issue but also critical for preserving traditional medicines and ensuring the nation’s health.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
