Forestry Commission pays homage to Asantehene, seeks blessings and support on sector challenges

The newly constituted Board of the Forestry Commission has paid a courtesy call on His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, seeking his blessings and guidance as they begin their mandate to address critical challenges facing Ghana’s forestry sector.

The visit formed part of a regional familiarization tour and followed a stakeholder engagement with timber industry players in the Ashanti Region.

Led by Board Chairman, Professor Martin Oteng-Ababio, the delegation formally introduced the new Board to the Asantehene and sought his counsel on several pressing issues threatening forest conservation and sustainable resource management.

High on the agenda was the controversial proposal to relocate the Kumasi Zoo — an idea the Board clarified had met resistance from the public due to the Zoo's educational and historical valu

Professor Oteng-Ababio underscored the importance of its current location and requested Otumfuo’s support in safeguarding the site.

Another major issue raised was the persistent encroachment on forestry lands at Adiebeba.

The Chairman expressed grave concern over unauthorized developments that continue to threaten the integrity of protected areas and appealed for traditional support in halting the encroachments.

The Board also highlighted environmental degradation around the Barekese Dam, citing illegal mining and quarrying as serious threats to water security and environmental sustainability in the region.

In response, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reaffirmed his commitment to environmental protection, expressing full confidence in the Board’s vision.

He criticized increasing violations of conservation laws and emphasized the need to integrate traditional expertise into environmental assessment and monitoring processes.

Addressing the Zoo controversy, the Asantehene clarified that he had never proposed its relocation and fully supported efforts to maintain it at its current location.

He lauded the Zoo’s role in education and recreation, particularly for the youth.

Otumfuo also encouraged the Commission to explore international funding opportunities for large-scale reforestation and youth employment initiatives.

He emphasized the importance of empowering young people through green projects that align with climate goals and sustainable development.

Addressing the Zoo controversy, the Asantehene clarified that he had never proposed its relocation and fully supported efforts to maintain it at its current location.

The visit ended with a vote of thanks from Professor Oteng-Ababio, who pledged to incorporate Otumfuo’s advice into the Commission’s strategy.

He assured the Manhyia Palace of ongoing collaboration to protect Ghana’s forests and promote sustainable land management.

The meeting not only solidified ties between the Forestry Commission and traditional leadership but also set the stage for a united front against illegal mining, land encroachment, and ecological degradation in the Ashanti Region.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith