Effutu Traditional Area Resolves to Protect Ramsar Forest Reserves from Encroachers

Effutu Traditional Area has taken a decisive stand to safeguard its forest reserves, which are Ramsar sites designated for ecological purposes and hunting grounds for the annual Aboakyer festival. The chiefs and people of the area have expressed their concerns about the increasing pressure from residential developers and cattle herdsmen encroaching upon their lands.

The paramount chief of the Effutu Traditional Area, Neenyi Ghartey VII, highlighted the impact of climate change worldwide, stating that these lands were not meant for human habitation. He urged encroachers to stay away from the forest reserves, warning them that their actions could have dire consequences.

During a grand durbar that marked the Aboakyer festival, the chief emphasized the need to protect the area’s natural heritage for posterity. The event, themed “Your Participation Makes a Difference for Development,” showcased the vibrant Ghanaian culture through traditional music, dance, language, and dressing.

Neenyi Ghartey lamented the lack of support from state agencies in the fight against encroachment. He revealed that even planned tree planting exercises were thwarted due to overgrazing by cattle herdsmen, who had refused to leave the hunting grounds despite repeated warnings from the Traditional Council.

Apart from preserving their forest reserves, the paramount chief also appealed for a modern market to promote hygienic practices and boost economic activities in the area. He urged individuals and institutions to help develop the community center and basic school into a well-grassed pitch with a permanent dais to serve the community.

Neenyi Ghartey also called on the government to expedite the completion and commissioning of a fish landing facility in the community to curb the age-long unhygienic handling of landed fish. He thanked President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for appointing him as the Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba and pledged to raise its standard to make it the best tertiary institution in Ghana.

For the most part, the Effutu Traditional Area remains committed to preserving its natural heritage and promoting sustainable development. However, this can only be achieved with the collective efforts of all members of the society. Winneba shall be strong, and that depends on their unity and love for one another.