Your Own Workers Are Behind Selling Of Rose Wood And Galamsey -Otumfuo Charges Forestry Commission’s Boss

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has charged the Forestry Commission to be vigilant as they discharge their duties of protecting and reserving Ghana’s forest.

He said despite their effort to manage the forest resort some destructive human activities exist and that must be worked towards.

“Initially, there were reserved forests areas where nobody went near but now it’s all gone, the remaining ones are suffering from galamsey”.

“We could tell when the rains would come but now things have changed and we’re responsible for the harm caused”.

“People in your position gave way for these acts, they allowed for deforestation without ensuring afforestation”.

He tasked that such goals can be reached even without government funds where through their knowledge and skills other means could be derived to manage the destructive nature of the forests.

“About two months ago the president was at the Glasgow meeting and it all bothered on climate change issues, what did the forestry commission take out of it, what plans are being laid down to ensure afforestation.

“I believe even without government monies, you could attract funds from outside with your skills and knowledge, “he said.

“There’s this plant called, Rosewood, it’s being stolen from our forest, the Chinese have access to it, how do they get hold of it?

“Also your own people conspire with others in the illegal felling and sale of trees and pretend to be arrested.

“Delve into these issues and derive proper layout for its management, other than that all the trees will be cut down and there will be no trees for your commission to cater for,” Otumfuo said.

This came about during the Forestry Commission’s visit to Manhyia Palace.

Forestry Commission’s CEO, Mr. John Allotey, and Board Chairman, Tetrete Okuamoah Sekyim II(Wassa Amenfihene) together with the board members were at the palace where the chairman had it that their presence is to seek blessings and guidance in their work.

They informed that the commission’s presence in the region awaits their End of Year Chief Executive Briefing and Staff Award which seeks to recognize their staff contribution over the years as well as update them on the happenings in their field over the years. Sefwi Wiawso-Manhene, Katakyie Kwasi Bumamgama was part of the entourage.

Source: Opemsuo.com/ Monica M. Appiah-Manu