Illegal timber logging activity has become the leading factor contributing immensely to the degradation of the forest reserves in the Western North Region.
Chiefs in the area, especially Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, the chief of Sehwi Boinzan, have called on the government to take proactive efforts against the activity.
The process of cutting down trees to harvest timber and pulp for commercial use has become one of the popular businesses in the Western North Region.
Earlier, it was properly managed and controlled by the Forestry Commission through the timber contractor companies.
However, in recent times, the timber logging activity has been done indiscriminately. Trees are been caught indiscriminately.
Also, since the timber loggers are engaged in illegal activities in the forest reserves, they have employed body-built armed men to protect their activity in the forest reserve.
As a result, farmers who have their farms in those areas are unable to go to their farms due to the harassment they are made to go through by these body-built armed men.
Various reports indicate that some farmers are beaten and threatened with pump-action guns. The armed men have made living very unbearable for those inhabitants as they are unable to go about their normal routines.
Considering the level of intimidation and risk the residents living around the forest and those who have their farms in the forest go through, the Chief of Sehwi Boinzan who doubles as the Kontihene of the Sehwi Wiawso Traditional Area, Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, has made a passionate appeal to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) government to immediately take an action against those illegal timber loggers harassing residents and operating illegally in the various forest reserves in the region.
He made this appeal when the Western North Regional Minister, Wilbert Petty Brentum, and his entourage paid a familiarisation visit to Nana Kokobe palace at Sehwi Boinzan in the Juaboso District.
Meanwhile, Wibert Petty Bretum, the Western North Regional Minister, assured that the indiscipline in the forest would be addressed.
He acknowledged that while there are legitimate individuals working in the forest, illegal activities are also prevalent, and he pledges to take action to stop these illegal activities.
The Minister also reassured Nana that his requests would be seriously considered and that the government is committed to serving the people of the region.
He called on Nana to continue supporting and guiding him in his efforts, emphasizing that he was there to serve the region and its people.
The minister concluded by assuring Nana that his doors are always open for any future visits or discussions.
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