Ghana’s forest cover, once a symbol of natural abundance, is under severe threat as recent reports from the Forestry Commission of Ghana reveal that the country continues to lose approximately 120,000 hectares of forest cover annually.
This level of deforestation is primarily driven by illegal logging, unsustainable agricultural practices, and mining activities, which pose significant threats to biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians.
The economic ramifications of forest degradation in Ghana are substantial. The forestry sector, a vital component of the national economy, is facing unprecedented challenges.
According to a 2024 report by the World Bank, deforestation and forest degradation cost Ghana an estimated 2.5% of its GDP annually.
This loss is attributed to the decline in ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and soil fertility, which are crucial for agriculture and climate resilience.
Furthermore, the degradation of forests exacerbates the impacts of climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events.
As the world commemorates International Forests Day, the Global Media Foundation LBG draws attention to the pressing issue of forest degradation in Ghana, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced conservation efforts.
This year’s theme, “Forests for a Sustainable Future,” highlights the critical role forests play in ensuring environmental stability and economic prosperity.
Rural communities, particularly those reliant on forest resources, are experiencing heightened food insecurity and poverty as their traditional means of livelihood are threatened.
In response to this crisis, the Ghanaian government, in partnership with international organizations, has implemented several initiatives aimed at reversing deforestation trends.
The Ghana Forest Plantation Strategy, for example, has successfully restored 200,000 hectares of degraded forest lands since its inception, with a target of 500,000 hectares by 2040.
Additionally, the REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) program continues to promote sustainable land-use practices and enhance forest governance.
However, experts stress that these efforts must be complemented by stronger enforcement of forestry laws, increased community involvement, and the promotion of alternative livelihoods to alleviate pressure on forest resources.
Global Media Foundation LBG, in a statement, believes that public awareness campaigns and educational programs remain crucial in fostering a culture of conservation and sustainability.
It is therefore calling on all stakeholders—government, civil society, private sector, and local communities—to unite in the fight to protect Ghana’s forests.
It noted that the health of our forests is intrinsically linked to the health of our people and our planet. By safeguarding and restoring our forests, we not only preserve biodiversity but also secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
“As we celebrate the invaluable contributions of forests to our well-being, let us commit to action and advocacy that will ensure the preservation of Ghana’s natural heritage. The time to act is now, for the forests and for our collective future”, the statement said.
