Stay away from Bomfobiri wildlife sanctuary - Park manager

The park manager of the Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission in the Sekyere Kumawu district, has warned residents of surrounding communities to stay away from the sanctuary.

According to the district wildlife manager, poaching, or illegal hunting, has been a significant challenge in managing the park.

Mr. Fuseini Damma issued this warning during a discussion with journalists about the daily protective activities involved in managing the park and sanctuary.

He emphasized that wildlife protected areas are strictly off-limits for illegal hunting activities, also known as poaching. The park is designated for environmental and biodiversity sustainability, as well as for recreation and ecotourism.

Mr. Damma noted that while illegal hunting within the sanctuary has been relatively minimal since 2022, there is still a need to enhance efforts to ensure the complete protection of the park and its biodiversity. He urged anyone interested in hunting to obtain a permit from the commission and its affiliated institutions.

He explained that the Wildlife Division issues licenses annually for hunting specific animal species, like grass cutters, outside protected areas, during the months of August to December.

He warned that anyone caught hunting within the sanctuary, with or without a license, will face severe penalties.

However, Mr. Damma encouraged the public to visit the park and its sanctuary for recreational activities such as bird watching, swimming in the park's waterfalls, hiking, camping, mountain climbing, and game viewing, all of which can contribute to refreshing mental health and well-being.