Protecting Achimota Forest: Cabinet Revokes E.I. 144, Restores Full Protected Status

Achimota forest

Ghana has taken a significant step toward safeguarding one of its most important natural assets after Cabinet revoked Executive Instrument 144 (E.I. 144), restoring the full protected status of the Achimota Forest Reserve.

The decision brings to an end years of controversy over the partial declassification of sections of the forest and has been widely welcomed by environmental advocates, conservationists, and members of the public who argued that the reserve should remain protected for future generations.

Achimota Forest, covering about 360 acres, is one of the few remaining natural forests within the Greater Accra Region. Beyond its scenic value, the reserve plays a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality, regulating temperatures, conserving biodiversity, and reducing the risk of flooding in the capital.

When E.I. 144 was introduced in 2022, it sought to remove the protected status of portions of the reserve to facilitate their return to private ownership. The move sparked widespread criticism from environmental organisations, scientists, civil society groups, and traditional authorities, who warned that opening the forest to development would undermine conservation efforts and encourage further encroachment on protected lands.

With the revocation of the Executive Instrument, the forest reverts entirely to its original protected status under the management of the Forestry Commission. Government has directed the Commission to reclaim encroached portions of the reserve, re-establish its official boundaries, and strengthen measures to prevent future invasions.

The decision is being viewed as an important victory for environmental protection, but experts caution that legal restoration alone will not guarantee the long-term survival of the forest. Effective enforcement will be essential to prevent renewed encroachment and misuse.

One issue that has attracted increasing public attention is the use of sections of the forest for religious activities, including prayer camps, overnight vigils, and large gatherings. While Ghana's Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship, conservationists argue that protected forest reserves should not be used for activities that may damage fragile ecosystems.

Environmental experts point to littering, vegetation clearing, open fires, human waste, and noise pollution as some of the consequences of such gatherings. They also warn that permitting one form of occupation could create a precedent for other unauthorised activities, including commercial development and illegal settlements.

Many believe that Achimota Forest should remain dedicated to its primary functions of conservation, scientific research, environmental education, and eco-tourism. Religious organisations and other groups, they argue, have access to numerous alternative venues across the country that are more appropriate for large gatherings.

Environmental stakeholders are therefore calling for stronger collaboration among the Forestry Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, local authorities, and the security services to ensure that the restored protected status is fully respected. They also advocate accelerated reforestation programmes, rehabilitation of degraded sections of the reserve, and sustained public education on the importance of preserving urban forests.

The restoration of Achimota Forest's protected status demonstrates that public engagement can influence national policy and reinforce Ghana's commitment to environmental stewardship. However, the long-term success of the decision will depend on consistent enforcement of the law and a collective commitment to protecting one of the country's most valuable ecological resources.

Achimota Forest is more than a parcel of land. It is an environmental asset that supports public health, biodiversity, climate resilience, and the quality of life of millions of people. Preserving it today is an investment in a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Ghana for generations to come.