Achimota Forest Reserve must not be sacrificed for private development – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Achimota Forest Reserve, stressing that the country’s largest remaining urban forest will not be sacrificed for private interests.

He described the reserve as an important environmental asset and national heritage that must be preserved for future generations.

President Mahama made the remarks on Tuesday, July 21, during a courtesy call by the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, Members of Parliament from the region and government officials at the Jubilee House.

He announced that Cabinet has approved the revocation of Executive Instrument 144, as amended, to restore the Achimota Forest Reserve to its original protected status.

“The Achimota Forest Reserve remains Accra's largest remaining urban forest, and must not be sacrificed for private development. It must be protected as an environmental asset, a green buffer, and a national heritage for present and future generations,” he said.

The President also outlined plans to reform Ghana’s land administration system, including measures to strengthen the Lands Commission and speed up the digitisation of land records.

According to him, the reforms are intended to improve transparency, prevent multiple sales of land, reduce corruption and ensure more efficient processing of land documentation.

“Land administration must serve the public interest and protect both traditional landowners and the interests of the state,” he stated.

President Mahama further said the government would continue consultations with the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, the Lands Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and other relevant stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues relating to compensation, land ownership, state acquisitions and the lawful management of public lands.

His comments come amid ongoing concerns over challenges within Ghana’s land sector, including land disputes, encroachment and the conversion of lands reserved for public and environmental purposes.

The government has said the planned reforms will create a more transparent and efficient land administration system while protecting Ghana’s natural resources and public assets.