In an address at the World Press Freedom Day Reception in Accra, Ghana’s Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Hon. Felix Ofosu Kwakye, has confirmed the government’s intention to revoke the controversial Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462.
This turnaround comes at a time when the amendment process of the L.I. is still pending in Parliament.
At the event, hosted at the German Residence, the government communicator said L.I. 2462 will be revoked once parliament resumes, adding that, “For all those who have been worried about the LI, work is ongoing to make sure it no longer exists.”
L.I. 2462, which sought to regulate mining in forest reserves in Ghana, had been met with concerns over granting unfettered access to forest reserves for mining purposes without sufficient safeguards and considerations for intergenerational equity. The decision to revoke the instrument entirely signals a responsiveness to public outcry.
Diplomatic Support for Press Freedom
The event, co-hosted by dignitaries including German Ambassador H.E. Daniel Krull and British High Commissioner H.E. Harriet Thompson, highlighted the importance of press freedom and open dialogue.
Also at the event were distinguished members of some diplomatic missions in Accra, representatives of state agencies like the NCCE, EPA, and some members of Parliament.
Non-state actors from the Ghana Journalists Association, Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, and A Rocha Ghana, who had all been very vocal in opposing the L.I., were also at the event.
The move aligned with the evening’s theme, “The Relevance of Press Freedom in Times of Galamsey,” underscoring the critical role of a free press in contributing to addressing existential national challenges like illegal mining.
Celebrating Excellence in Environmental Reporting
The reception also featured the presentation of the 2025 Media Freedom Coalition Awards and a lively debate on press freedom. This year’s Media Freedom Coalition Awards sought to shed light on illegal mining and its effects on Communities and their livelihoods. Entries were open to Ghanaian journalists working in Print, radio, TV or online media.
Media Freedom Coalition Award Winners for 2025 are:
Ghanaian farmers near Lake Bosomtwe face rising crop pests and a receding lake. A collaborative effort blends local wisdom, science, and traditional farming to secure this vital ecosystem’s future.
At Ghana’s Lake Bosomtwe, the intertwined challenges of crop pests and lake degradation are met with a combined effort of local farming wisdom and scientific tools. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
In the thick of the Guinean Forest, Cecilia, Margaret, Comfort, and Josephine walk through their small patches of farmland. At the heart of Ghana’s central Ashanti region, the forest surrounds the mythical Lake Bosomtwe, one of the six lakes in the world formed by a falling meteorite. More than a million years old, it is the country’s only natural lake and one of the few in West Africa. The women are farmers belonging to the 20 or so villages around Bosomtwe. They grow okra, cassava, sugarcane, palm oil, plantain, and cacao at a subsistence level.
The forest and lake’s idyllic nature can trick an unsuspecting observer into believing all is well in paradise. The women working in the forest daily understand reality better.
Speaking in the local dialect, Twi, the women explained with the help of a translator that moths are destroying their crops, that pests reduce the marketability of okra by making it appear damaged, that crickets and hoppers cut into the crops, and that small flies penetrate the women’s eyes and noses when they work.
Margaret, one of the dedicated women farmers working the land near Lake Bosomtwe. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
It wasn’t always like this. The women noticed the increase in the pest population around five years ago. They attributed the phenomenon to the changing rainfall patterns, noting the pests thrive in periods of increasingly low rainfall. They also pointed to the loss of trees and the use of chemical pesticides as reasons. To understand pest behaviour, the women lay Malaise traps on their plantations to capture different insects. The samples are then sent for study to the International Barcode of Life (IBOL) Consortium, based at the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics in Guelph, Canada.
IBOL’s research is part of an intervention led by Canadian development organizations, the World University Service of Canada and the Centre d’étude et de coopération Internationale. Supported by Global Affairs Canada, the three-year project began in 2023, and it offers nature-based solutions to the challenges faced by communities dependent on the broader Guinean Forest, encompassing Ivory Coast and Guinea alongside Ghana.
From field to lab
With the help of Malaise traps, “we aim to identify the insect species present within the landscape,” said Benjamin Afful, a project officer at the faith-based conservation organization and project implementation partner, A Rocha Ghana. Afful, a trained soil scientist, explained that “once we identify the species and their populations, we can make informed decisions regarding appropriate land management and propose effective interventions.” Afful gave the example of the fall armyworm, typically found in North and South America, which was discovered in Ghana a decade ago. He said climate change has created a conducive environment for the worm to thrive, including the forest around Bosomtwe. “These worms infest maize plants, feeding on them from a young stage and ultimately destroying them,” Afful added. A Rocha Ghana is exploring locally available materials for pest control, such as extracts from the abundant neem trees around the lake. “Spraying neem extract on crops can deter insects,” Afful said.
Not all insects are pests. Many play a positive role in maintaining the ecosystem’s health. Knowing all the species around the lake’s forest allows the researchers “to determine their ecological roles: are they beneficial, such as pollinators or nutrient recyclers?” Afful explained. A decline in pollinator populations could explain reduced crop production,” Afful added, which could “inform appropriate interventions, such as promoting organic farming practices. “Determining whether to adopt organic methods and identifying suitable organic amendments becomes crucial for insect conservation.” Afful added that their “pest control strategy aims to maintain pest populations below the economic threshold, rather than complete eradication. “Some insects are beneficial, becoming problematic only when their numbers exceed a certain level.”
According to Afful, the analysis of samples collected by the women will help “assess if agroforestry systems support greater insect species diversity compared to monoculture systems.” He added that the “comparison will inform decisions regarding land use, promoting agroforestry to enhance insect diversity and abundance, which are critical for food security.”
Roots of recovery
Cecilia, Margaret, Comfort, and Josephine continued the tour of the forest. While the farmers await lab results from IBOL, other interventions, such as agroforestry, are being implemented. The women explained that adding tree cover helps the crops, as the shade allows the soil to maintain moisture. More trees also mean fewer chances of insects feeding on crops. By the shore, Dorcas Boama explained how she has seen the lake recede over the years. Speaking with the help of a translator, Boama said that the sun falls directly on the lake. If they have trees to create shade, it reduces evaporation and helps maintain the water level.
The changing landscape of Lake Bosomtwe’s shore reflects the challenges of a receding lake for the local communities. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)Bunches of freshly harvested plantains, one of the key crops grown by the women farmers around Lake Bosomtwe. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
The lack of canopy around the shores also increases siltation, pushing the water back. The receding lake increases land availability, and the land around the lake is prized for farming, reinforcing the cycle of deforestation and lake degradation. Grass and trees block the sand and other sediments coming from uphill during the rains, Boama added. Indigenous tree species, such as mahogany, have been planted as part of the intervention to prevent the lake from drying and receding. Fruit trees like coconuts and avocados have also been planted, allowing the farmers to sell the produce and earn extra income. Festus Owusu, a resident of one of the villages around the lake, said the areas of the lake’s shore with trees have remained stable. He hopes to receive more seedlings during the project so that they can plant enough trees to prevent the lake from receding. Parts of the lake’s shore that don’t have trees recede yearly.
Roots of responsibility
Managing a 49-kilometre-square lake and the surrounding forest requires governance.
Ghana’s Forestry Commission has created Community Resource Management Areas (CREMA), which have the responsibility and authority to implement laws to ensure the conservation of areas under its jurisdiction. Lake Bosomtwe is also looked after by a CREMA.
Sitting under tree shade by the lake, Nana Boamah, CREMA’s project coordinator, explained with the help of a translator that they have demarcated the lake into three zones – core, transition and buffer – where activities such as farming, tree cutting, fishing and using water for domestic activities such as cleaning are banned. Nana Boamah said that CREMA, comprised of members and elders from each Bosomtwe village, also carries out educational and awareness workshops to prevent the use of chemicals and pesticides in farms that drain the lake, degrade the water quality, and affect the fish habitat.
Nana Boamah, the project coordinator for CREMA, working on community-led conservation efforts around Lake Bosomtwe. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
But education alone is insufficient, said Nana Boamah, and villagers need alternative income streams to transition to more sustainable activities. CREMA explored snail farming, but it proved to be unsuccessful, as the villagers were unable to keep the snails alive.
Grasscutters are a delicacy in the region, and Nana Boamah believes rearing the insect could be a viable option. Beekeeping could be another. However, due to financial constraints, these initiatives, along with the technologically advanced farming methods that CREMA has attempted, have yet to take off. An intervention that seems to have been adopted by farmers is the traditional methods of farm maintenance called proka and bucha.
Charles Tuffour of CREMA plays a key role in educating farmers about traditional, environmentally friendly farming techniques near Lake Bosomtwe. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
Charles Tuffour, an organizer with CREMA, explained that farmers typically prefer to clear the land by burning it with chemicals, which harms the environment. However, according to Tuffour, CREMA has made farmers understand that farming techniques matter more than farm size. Traditional farming techniques, such as bucha, or mulching, involve amending the soil around crops with organic matter such as crop residue, grass and leaves, fruits, and livestock manure. Mulching helps improve soil fertility and nutrients, moisture and temperature. Proka is a no-till farming method in which the mulch stays on the farm instead of being burned with chemicals.
Tuffour said that when compared, traditional techniques produce better yields than farms that use chemicals.
Leading the way
Back in Bosomtwe, the women ended the tour at their village. They have planted the trees and adopted mulching, and they hope that samples from the Malaise traps will help them manage the insects and pests on their farms. Women are the backbone of the communities around the lake. While most of the land belongs to men, the women sell the produce and the fish in the market, ensuring a vital income stream for their families. A meteorite formed Bosomtwe, but its women aren’t waiting for an out-of-this-world intervention to face the increasing climate and environmental challenges.
The homes of the Lake Bosomtwe farmers nestled near the vital waters they work to protect. (Jahanzeb Hussain/Future of Good)
The campaign, titled “DO GHANA GOOD 2.0”, sought to educate the public about the implications and increase public participation in a petition to revoke the controversial L.I. 2462, which grants mining rights within these critical ecosystems.
The initiative kicked off on Wednesday, April 16, setting up at key locations in Accra, including Madina, 37, and the popular Accra Mall. Volunteers engaged passersby, explaining the dangers of mining in forest reserves, such as deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and negative impacts on local communities. The campaign emphasised the importance of preserving these natural resources for future generations.
The campaign has been in partnership with Wear Ghana, The Coalition
Public Response and Impact
According to Grace Sogbey, Communications Officer at A Rocha Ghana, “The enthusiastic response we received is a testament to the growing awareness among Ghanaians about the importance of protecting our environment.”
“We believe that by uniting our voices, we can influence policy changes that will safeguard our natural heritage,” she added.
On Thursday, the second day of the campaign, we moved to other strategic locations, including Osu, Ministries, Circle, and Ridge. The team mounted the “DO Ghana GOOD 2.0” banner, inviting citizens to add their voices to the cause by signing it. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many people expressing their support for environmental protection and concern over the current law, L.I. 2462.
By the end of the two-day engagement, nearly 1,000 signatures had been collected to complement an active online petition platform that had already gathered 7000 signatures from citizens who are calling on President John Mahama to revoke L.I. 2462. The signatures will be presented in a formal petition aimed at urging the government to reconsider its stance on mining activities in forest reserves.
L.I. 2462 Must be Revoked
Naa Densuah, an activist in the famous #StopGalamseyNow demonstration in 2024, highlights that galamsey not only affects the environment, but it also promotes social vices like child prostitution in some rural communities. She cited recent media reports in the Western Region about an illegal mining community with an alleged 10,000 residents, including foreign nationals.
“People my age have grandchildren; young people will have grandchildren. Now, our water bodies, air, and food chain have been destroyed. Just yesterday, we found a Galamsey community with over 10,000 residents, and that village was characterised by child prostitution. Is that not enough reason we should end Galamsey for the future?” she quizzed.
We at A Rocha Ghana reiterate that, until L.I. 2462 is revoked, no forest reserve in Ghana is safe and therefore makes it is imperative for all Ghanaians to join the campaign.
As concerned citizens deeply affected by the devastating ecological impacts in our home country of Ghana, the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey implores HE President John Mahama to uphold his promise to the people of Ghana to revoke the damaging Law LI2462. This law currently allows mining in our forest reserves, which are the lifeblood of our nation. It is threatening our environment and accelerating us towards the brink of extinction. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated.
The negative ramifications of this mining law and its concomitant irresponsible and illegal mining have been evident with the depletion of forest reserves, extinction of species, and destabilization of ecosystems. Despite criticism, the National Patriotic Party (NPP) had an instrument ready to repeal LI2462 towards the end of 2024 – a move we now call upon President Mahama to mirror in protecting our natural resources.
It is disheartening that while revoking the LI would save over 60% of our beloved forest reserves, the proposed amendment might save a meagre 10%. With the National Democratic Congress (NDC) holding a supermajority in Parliament, there is more than ample political strength to annul this amendment in Parliament.
As Ghanaians, though not against responsible and green mining, we urge not just preservation, but responsible management of our environment in the face of this destructive mining law. President Mahama, we plead with you to act as you promised when campaigning and protect these precious reserves for current and future generations. Sign this petition to demonstrate your support for revoking Law LI2462 and share it with your contact to sign. We would add this to the written petition to HE John Mahama.
Together, we have the power to make a difference.
Let us all drive the hashtags #RevokeAndNotAmend #RepealLI2462 #StopGalamsey #StopGalamseyNow
A coalition of civil society organizations, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens has released a statement urging the government to tackle the growing problem of illegal mining in the country.
The group, which includes A Rocha Ghana, Kasa Initiative, Ghana Nature and Development Foundation, and Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape, voiced serious concerns about the harmful effects of illegal mining on the environment, local communities, and the economy.
They called for urgent actions against illegal mining, citing environmental degradation and regulatory failures. Key demands include:
Revocation of LI 2462
Immediate repeal of the regulation allowing mining in forest reserves to protect conservation efforts.
Ban on Tributary Mining Leases
– Improve monitoring and transparency in tributer mining arrangements to prevent misuse.
Arrest of Forestry Officers
– Address the abuse of power in detaining officials protecting forests, undermining lawful enforcement.
Leadership Change in Eastern Region
– Replace ineffective police leadership to enhance compliance with mining regulations.
Resource Allocation for the Forestry Commission
– Equip the commission to manage confiscated illegal mining equipment effectively.
New Leadership for the Minerals Commission
– Appoint a visionary leader focused on responsible mining practices and environmental protection.
The statement emphasizes the need for decisive action and accountability to combat illegal mining effectively and protect the environment and communities in Ghana.
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The concerns raised by Mr. Michael Sandow Ali, Director of the Mining Department at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), regarding the proposal to repeal the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022 (L.I 2462), deserves attention to correct some misrepresentation of facts in his statement.
The caution about a potential regulatory vacuum is unfounded. The risk to forests exists with or without L.I. 2462, and evidence clearly shows that the L.I. has exacerbated these risks. By opening forests to large-scale mining, complete with tracks and machinery, L.I. 2462 has indirectly invited a surge in illegal mining activities. Retaining this legislation poses severe threats to Ghana’s forests, biodiversity, and communities. Below, we address these concerns further and propose actionable steps to protect forest reserves and ensure sustainable management
Addressing Key Concerns
Risk of Unregulated Mining
The claim that repealing L.I. 2462 without a robust replacement risks regulatory gaps is a misrepresentation. The reality is that forest risks existed before the L.I., but its implementation has worsened the situation by enabling large-scale mining and increased forest access. Unlike the 2018 Environmental Guidelines, which limited mining to 2% of production forest reserves, L.I. 2462 removes this restriction, paving the way for expansive mining with minimal oversight. This weakens existing protections and undermines sustainable forest management, highlighting the urgent need to repeal L.I. 2462 and adopt stronger, more effective regulations. The evidence is there to show that, Ghana’s forests received better protection from mining before the L.I 2462 was passed.
Impact on Forest Integrity
Contrary to claims that L.I. 2462 enhances protection it has facilitated the approval of mining leases in critical biodiversity areas, including Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs), previously prohibited under the 2018 guidelines. This undermines Ghana’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and national policies aimed at preserving ecological integrity.
Historical Context and Existing Licenses
While mining in forest reserves has been allowed since 1945, L.I. 2462 significantly expands access, enabling entire reserves to be allocated for mining. For example, leases granted under L.I. 2462 cover extensive areas of reserves like Nkrabia and Boin Tano, threatening key ecosystems and livelihoods.
Provisions for Responsible Mining
The biodiversity offsetting provisions in L.I. 2462 are inadequate. Companies are permitted to establish plantations instead of restoring natural forests, which neither compensates for biodiversity loss nor addresses community concerns over land use. This approach is misaligned with global best practices for sustainable mining and false solution and does not address the mischief of forest and biodiversity loss that is associated with mining in forest reserves.
Recommendations for the Way Forward
L.I. 2462 is retrogressive and undermines Ghana’s sustainable forest management by permitting mining in reserves, violating the Forest and Wildlife Policy (2012), Forest Development Master Plan (2020–2035), and National Biodiversity Strategy. It breaches Ghana’s commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework and Convention on Biological Diversity. Targeting forest reserves for mining, despite their statutory designation for providing invaluable services that extend beyond the present, is an imprudent decision that fails to reflect the judicious use of Ghana’s natural resources. These reserves are vital for ecological balance, water security, and intergenerational sustainability, making their protection paramount.
To sustainably manage Ghana’s forests, L.I. 2462 must be repealed and replaced with a law explicitly banning mining in forest reserves, aligning with the Forestry Development Master Plan’s 2035 target. Strengthened regulations are needed to ensure strict oversight, minimal environmental impact, and mandatory restoration. Commitments to conserve GSBAs must be upheld through participatory planning processes that protect biodiversity and prioritize community interests. Additionally, robust enforcement mechanisms and inter-agency collaboration are essential to combat illegal mining and safeguard the integrity of forest reserves while balancing economic benefits with environmental sustainability.
The repeal of L.I. 2462 is not a call for regulatory vacuum but an urgent step to ensure that Ghana’s forests, biodiversity, and communities are protected for current and future generations. It is therefore imperative that processes initiated by the AG and the Ministry of Environment Science Technology and Innovation to repeal the L.I is completed to usher in a more progressive framework for the sustainable management of forests in Ghana.
Signed
Seth Appiah-Kubi
National Director
A Rocha Ghana
For Follow-up Correspondence
Daryl Bosu, Deputy National Director. A Rocha Ghana Tel: 0202555727
In a progressive turn of events in the fight against illegal mining in Ghana, six of the twelve presidential candidates in Ghana’s upcoming elections have signed a National Pledge Against Illegal and Irresponsible Mining. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG), underscores a shared urgency among political leaders to address the rampant illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, that has been devastating Ghana’s natural resources.
GCAG is a national platform that comprises, coalitions and networks of organisations from ten key sectors in Ghana including the Media, Labour, Religious Groups, Youth Groups, Research and Academia, Pressure Groups, CSOs, Professional Bodies, Traditional Leaders, and Business bodies. The action to sign the ‘pact’ follows several months of active engagements with state and non-state actors within the extractive sector in Ghana, with a goal to halt the indiscriminate and irresponsible mining across the country known as galamsey.
Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey briefing the media
Disclosing the commitments made by the flagbearers of the six political parties at a press conference on the 5th of December, 2024, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of GCAG, made it clear that the winner of the December 7 election will face immediate scrutiny regarding their commitment to the pledge starting January 2025.
“There is no honeymoon for whosoever will win the December 7th, 2024 elections,” Ashigbey asserted, emphasizing that all signatories will be held accountable to the collective goals of this initiative.
Prominent candidates such as John Mahama, Alan Kyerematen, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia have signed on to the pledge, signaling their unified commitment to addressing illegal mining should they win the mandate of the people to lead Ghana after the December 7th Presidential and Parliamentary elections. The remaining candidates that have also signed are, Kofi Akpaloo, Hassan Ayariga and independent candidate John Twum Barima.
The need for a Pact
The pledge is one of several key demands by professional and civil society bodies as well as members of the media fraternity for concerted and decisive action on illegal mining by the executive. This pact symbolizes a unified commitment to eradicating galamsey and restoring Ghana’s waterbodies, forest reserves, and environmental heritage for future generations.
By signing the pact, Presidential Candidates affirm their political will and showcase decisive leadership in addressing a crisis with profound consequences for Ghana’s environment, economy, and public health. This pact reflects the spirit of responsibility and national interest, positioning signatories as champions in the fight against galamsey.
It aims to inspire a new social contract with the people of Ghana, fostering collective action and environmental stewardship for future generations. Grounded in collaboration among political leaders, civil society, traditional authorities, faith leaders, and local communities, this pact sets a powerful standard of accountability and leadership, shaping a legacy of environmental protection.
This pledge is not just symbolic; it establishes specific commitments that require accountability from the candidates. They are expected to publicly denounce galamsey, call for an end to illegal mining activities, and ensure strict law enforcement against offenders, irrespective of their political or social standing.
Furthermore, the pact outlines the development of comprehensive policies aimed at ending illegal mining in both the short and long term, making it clear that future leaders must act decisively.
Speaking at the Press Conference Professor Ransford Gyampo, speaking on behalf of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), highlighted that the pact serves as a tool for accountability. He stated, “Once they sign the pact with us, we use the pact as a tool of accountability.” This sentiment captures the essence of the coalition’s mission: to hold future leaders responsible for their commitments.
Arch. Foster Akornor from the Ghana Institute of Architects added that active participation is crucial. “We can only do better as a country if we don’t sit on the fence,” he asserted, stressing that collective responsibility is key to safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Beverlyn Osei Ampadu, National Coordinator for the CSO Platform on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscored the urgency of adhering to sustainable development goals, particularly in light of the adverse impacts of galamsey. “We have failed ourselves; we cannot fail the future,” she remarked, reinforcing the notion that the fight against illegal mining transcends political boundaries.
Engineer Henry Kwadwo Boateng from the Institute of Engineers shared his concerns about the extensive involvement of various sectors in combating illegal mining. He reemphasized, “Politicians, chiefs, those who are influential in society, public servants, and now those who know better are also involved. So, we are fully supporting the coalition so that we don’t give honeymoon to the next government.”
Demanding Immediate Action Post-Election
Ing. Ashigbey reiterated that environmental governance must be prioritized following the elections. He stated, “Immediately after the election finishes, we are going to issue Right to Information requests.” This proactive approach highlights the coalition’s commitment to demanding accountability from agencies like the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Ashigbey also cautioned against complacency, drawing a stark comparison to the moral implications of self-harm through environmental neglect. “A country that poisons its enemy’s water in the time of war is considered a grave war crime. I wonder what we will say of a country that does that to itself,” he remarked.
He further indicated that the stakes are high and future leaders must be prepared to face scrutiny and act decisively to protect Ghana’s environment and resources.
The Path Forward
The agreement signed by candidates is a crucial first step, but accountability will not wane after the election. Ashigbey’s call for a sustained effort to enforce environmental regulations and hold leaders responsible for their actions signifies a commitment to long-term change. As Ghana approaches a critical juncture, the expectation for immediate and sustained action against illegal mining remains a priority for all stakeholders involved.
In an exciting showcase of excellence, the Accra City Hotel has been honored with the Green Corporate Star Award at the 2024 EMY Africa Awards, held on November 24, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre. This recognition celebrates outstanding achievements in environmental sustainability, and Accra City Hotel stood out among a host of distinguished nominees.
The Green Corporate Star Award, sponsored by A Rocha Ghana (ARG), honors businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices and embed sustainability into their core operations. Organizations nominated for this prestigious accolade actively contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, showcasing their commitment to a greener future.
Accra City Hotel emerged victorious after a comprehensive selection process. Mr. Jeffrey Martin Ashiamah, the hotel’s Sustainability Manager, proudly accepted the award, expressing gratitude for the recognition of their hard work. “A green and sustainable environment is essential for our survival,” he emphasized.
A Commitment to Nature
A visit to Accra City Hotel reveals a remarkable commitment to sustainability that began eight years ago. The hotel management set ambitious goals to implement an Integrated Management System, achieving ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 22000:2005 certifications, making them the first ISO-certified hotel for environmental management in West Africa.
Their journey is fueled by numerous initiatives aimed at achieving nine Sustainable Development Goals. One notable effort is the hotel’s adoption of the endangered Yellow Casqued Hornbill, a vulnerable species threatened by hunting. This initiative aligns with the hotel’s largest meeting room, named after the River Ankobra, and features conservation information prominently displayed at the hotel’s exit.
In addition to promoting bird conservation, Accra City Hotel has conducted a comprehensive bird survey and installed bird boxes to create a welcoming habitat for avian visitors.
Their commitment to waste management is equally impressive, with waste separated into ten categories and six earmarked for recycling.
To further reduce their ecological impact, the hotel has transitioned from hardwood charcoal to coconut briquettes, significantly lowering tree-cutting for charcoal production and minimizing their carbon footprint. Energy consumption is also carefully monitored through advanced systems like heat recovery and motion sensors in guest rooms and common areas. Daily energy readings are tracked using the Hotel Carbon Management Initiative tool to meet reduction targets.
Inspiring Change Across Ghana
The achievements of Accra City Hotel serve as a powerful example for businesses across Ghana to embrace sustainability. There are immense opportunities for companies to make a positive impact, whether through bold initiatives or small, meaningful changes.
Every organization has the potential to innovate and integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations, contributing to a healthier environment and economy.
Join the movement by becoming part of BESNet, a network of businesses dedicated to sharing insights, and learning, and spearheading green initiatives for a sustainable future. Let’s all take action today for a greener tomorrow!
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s recent statement at UNFCCC COP 29 in Baku, where he declared Ghana has restored 721,000 hectares of forest since 2017, demands critical scrutiny. While forest restoration is a pertinent goal, this claim starkly contrasts with the government’s active supervision, culpability and record of inaction resulting in an unprecedented escalation of illegal and irresponsible mining across the entire country that has left forest, agricultural lands, rivers and water bodies destroyed.
The President’s announcement fails to align with the stark realities on the ground. While we were supposedly planting trees, we simultaneously and actively pursued policies and legislation that facilitated the destruction of natural forests, undermining Ghana’s hard-earned reputation and progress in sustainable forest management over the past two decades.
A glaring example is Ghana’s contradictory actions in 2022 and thereafter. That year, the country joined the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership, committing to protect forests and communities. Yet, in the very same year, the government working with a hung parliament of the NPP and NDC passed Regulation L.I. 2462, which opened Ghana’s protected forests to mining activities. This period has also seen an unprecedented wave of mining leases that risk converting production and protected forests into sprawling mine pits. Again, illegal and irresponsible mining has significantly undermined Ghana’s credibility as a member of the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership. Ghana’s direct actions or omissions have failed to uphold commitments outlined by the partnership, contradicting its leadership in forest conservation and climate action.
Instead of genuine restoration, our lived reality has been staggeringly devastating. Over 48,000 hectares of gazetted forest reserves are earmarked for conversion to mining areas and 4800 hectares already destroyed by Ghana’s irresponsible mining pursuit. So far, not less than, 35 forest reserves have been severely impacted by the activities of illegal miners. Altogether, the ecological integrity of over 350,000 hectares of forests will be severely compromised as a result.
