The Savannah Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, Mr. Frank Adomakor-Kwabia, has outlined key concerns about forestry operations in the Salaga area while welcoming renewed commitments from local authorities to support the establishment of a permanent district office.
Speaking during an engagement with stakeholders, Mr. Adomakor-Kwabia expressed appreciation for the support shown by the Municipal Chief Executive. He said although the office space provided for their immediate use is temporary, the MCE has assured them of a parcel of land on which the Forestry Commission can construct a permanent office block and staff quarters. He described the gesture as a strong indication of the Assembly’s readiness to facilitate effective forest management in the Municipality.
Mr. Adomakor-Kwabia noted that the availability of land for office facilities and accommodation has been a longstanding challenge, and the assurance from the Assembly will be well received by his superiors in Accra once his report is submitted. He disclosed that photographs of the allocated site would be taken and forwarded to Accra for necessary action, adding that the vast nature of East Gonja and its adjoining districts requires additional personnel and closer supervision.
On environmental protection, the Regional Manager raised concerns about the growing scale of charcoal production in the area. He observed that charcoal burning has become a lucrative economic activity but poses a serious threat to forest resources if left unchecked. He emphasized that with a permanent Forestry Commission presence in Salaga and with the cooperation of traditional authorities and the District Assembly effective regulatory measures can be implemented to control the practice.
Mr. Adomakor-Kwabia clarified that the Forestry Commission does not intend to impose a total ban on charcoal production. Rather, the aim is to introduce sustainable controls alongside tree-planting initiatives to ensure regeneration.
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