President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized his government’s commitment to protecting the Achimota Forest Reserve, declaring that the country’s largest remaining urban forest will not be sacrificed for private development.
Speaking during a courtesy call by the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, Members of Parliament from the region and government appointees at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, July 21, President Mahama said Cabinet had approved the revocation of Executive Instrument 144, as amended, to restore the forest reserve to its full 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.
He also announced plans to reform Ghana’s land administration system, including strengthening the Lands Commission and accelerating the digitisation of land records.
According to him, the reforms are intended to improve transparency, prevent multiple sales of land, reduce corruption and ensure faster processing of land documents.
“Land administration must serve the public interest and protect both traditional landowners and the interests of the state,” he stated.
President Mahama said government would continue engaging the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, the Lands Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and other relevant institutions to address outstanding issues relating to compensation, land ownership, state acquisitions and the lawful use of public lands.
His remarks come amid longstanding concerns over land disputes, encroachment and the development of lands designated for public and environmental purposes.
Government believes the proposed reforms will strengthen transparency and efficiency in land administration while safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and public lands.
