Eco-Conscious Citizens and concerned citizens call on the Government of Ghana to take immediate and decisive action to protect one of our nation’s irreplaceable natural treasures — Atewa Forest Reserve.
Eco-Conscious Citizens, a civil society organisation dedicated to safeguarding a clean, green, serene, and healthy environment, has raised grave concerns about the ongoing environmental vandalism of Atewa Forest Reserve. This once‑pristine ecosystem — protected since 1926 — is currently under severe threat from environmental vandalism that endangers its biodiversity, its watersheds, and the millions of Ghanaians who depend on it.
Atewa Forest is a globally significant biodiversity hotspot. It is home to endangered plant and animal species. Three major rivers — the Ayensu, Birim, and Densu — take their source from this forest, providing drinking water to more than five million people. As Professor Frimpong-Boateng has warned, “when you destroy a forest, you destroy a pharmacy.”
The destruction of Atewa is therefore not only an ecological tragedy but a direct threat to public health and national wellbeing.
We, the undersigned, therefore petition H.E. the President of the Republic of Ghana to:
- Resource the Forestry Commission and NAIMOS adequately to halt the ongoing destruction of Atewa Forest Reserve.
- Establish a Rapid Response Team stationed near the Reserve to prevent further environmental vandalism.
- Make the protection of Atewa Forest a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) for the Kyebi Police, and the Atiwa West and Atiwa East District Assemblies.
- Declare Atewa Forest Reserve a National Park — an essential step in safeguarding this ecological jewel for present and future generations.
Declaring Atewa a National Park will honour the 100‑year legacy of Nana Ofori Atta, who supported its protection in 1926. It will remind the nation that Atewa has long been recognised as a forest of exceptional value — one that must now be elevated to the highest level of protection. A National Park designation will help shield the forest from ecocide and ensure that its rivers, wildlife, and cultural heritage endure.
Other communities, such as Jema in the Aowin District of the Western North Region, have already taken bold steps to remain mining‑free. Atewa must follow this example.
We call on all Ghanaians, environmental advocates, traditional leaders, and global allies to stand with us. Atewa Forest is a national treasure. Its protection is a national responsibility. Its survival is a national legacy.
Declare Atewa Forest a National Park — now, before it is too late.
