The Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, has vowed to take action against the reclassification of the Achimota Forest. Suhuyini, who is also the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Lands Committee, expressed concerns that allowing development in the forest will put the country at risk, particularly Ghanaians living in Accra.
He criticized the government’s decision to declassify almost half of the Achimota Forest, stating that it will have severe consequences for the environment and the citizens. Suhuyini questioned the president’s reasoning behind the declassification, saying that no explanation has been given on how it will benefit the country.
The Tamale North lawmaker revealed that the government has spent over GH¢400 million on afforestation programs, making it puzzling that they would reclassify the Achimota Forest for commercial and residential developments. He emphasized that the government’s actions are contradictory, as they are spending millions on afforestation while also destroying existing forests.
Suhuyini expressed frustration that despite the government’s efforts to increase forest cover, they are now destroying a forest that has been in existence for generations. He stated that his committee intends to visit the forest to ascertain whether portions are being demarcated for the Owoo family, as they cannot allow the destruction of the forest.
Suhuyini emphasized the importance of saving the Achimota Forest, as it filters the air and saves lives, particularly in the choked city of Accra. He concluded that everything possible will be done to stop the reclassification of the Achimota Forest and protect it for future generations.
