Dr. Charles Yaw Okyere, a lecturer at the University of Ghana’s School of Agriculture, has expressed serious concerns about the ongoing issue of illegal logging in the country. This problem continues to hinder environmental conservation efforts.
In an exclusive interview with UniversNews, Dr. Okyere discussed a recent incident in the Bono region where eight individuals were arrested for illegal logging in the Mpameso Forest Reserve. He highlighted several factors exacerbating the issue, including extensive land clearing for agriculture, illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), and increased demand for timber due to urbanization and population growth.
”We have our agricultural system, where we have to clear a lot of land to enhance our productivity. Then there’s the issue of mining related to galamsey, which involves the clearing of land for the search of gold and other resources. Additionally, the increasing demand for forest products, including timber, is also a factor. All these happen because there’s an increase in urbanization and population growth, which comes into play. Therefore, it’s not surprising that illegal logging is on the rise.”
The lecturer also noted that while Ghana’s forestry laws are robust, their enforcement has been largely ineffective.Additionally, he stressed the need for public education on forest preservation, warning of the severe consequences that continued deforestation could bring.
“The damage caused by illegal logging is difficult to quantify, even with monetary values. We must remember that when the last tree is cut, and the last tree dies, the last man dies. This interrelationship between humans and nature is why we must take this menace very seriously.”
Dr. Okyere emphasized the importance of adopting alternative livelihood programs, such as LEAP and LIPW, which integrate reforestation efforts to help reduce the negative effects of illegal logging on affected communities.
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Story by: Joycelyn Glory | universnews.ug.edu.gh
