IN THE LINE OF DUTY: A HERO’S SACRIFICE IN RESOURCE PROTECTION

The Forestry Commission (FC) has laid to rest a gallant hero, Mr. Raphael Ganyo, a Resource Guard with the Wildlife Division of the Commission.

His final funeral rites were held at Adorzekope near Mafi-Kumasi in the Volta Region, drawing family, colleagues, and dignitaries to honour his life and service.

Mr. Ganyo tragically lost his life after being fatally shot by a poacher while on patrol at the Zitoe Camp within the Kalakpa Resource Reserve.

His untimely death underscores the significant risks Forestry Commission personnel face daily in safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage.

In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, the Commission posthumously promoted him to the rank of Chief Resource Guard and renamed the Zitoe Camp as Raphael Ganyo Camp in his honour.

Additionally, the Commission extended support to the bereaved family by offering employment opportunities to two relatives.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Joseph Boakye Esq., Executive Director of the Wildlife Division, announced these interventions and presented a donation of Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 50,000) to the family as a gesture of solidarity and support.

CEO, Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown emphasized the urgent need for improved resourcing, training, and protective equipment for frontline staff, including bulletproof vests.

He revealed that, beyond Mr. Ganyo’s death, the Forest Services Division (FSD) has also suffered the loss of two Resource Guards, with approximately 33 personnel sustaining injuries in the line of duty.

Dr. Brown further appealed to the public to support the Commission’s mandate, noting that “the work we do is inherently risky, and we need collective support to succeed.”

He highlighted persistent operational challenges, including inadequate personnel and limited logistics such as vehicles and motorbikes.

He also disclosed that the Commission is currently engaged in legal consultations to review Act 571, with the aim of securing paramilitary status that would provide the legal backing for personnel to carry appropriate arms for their protection.

Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Mr. Joseph Osiakwan, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources; Mr. Isaac Essien Esq., Chairman of the FC Board; Dr. Abukari Attah Esq., FC Board Member; Dr. Richard Gyimah, Executive Director of TIDD; Dr. Gordon Sarfo Adu, Executive Director of FSD; as well as managers and staff of the Forestry Commission.

Credit: Forestry Commission