Government urged to rescind decision on mining in Atewa Forest

The Coalition of NGOs Against Mining in the Atewa Forest, has appealed to government to rescind its decision to allow mining in the Forest.

"We urge government to endeavour to ensure that ecosystem functions of Atewa forest are conserved now and for the future."

The appeal was contained in a release signed by Mr. Daryl Bosu, Project Manager of the Coalition in Accra.

It was in connection with the commemoration of Rio+20 Earth Summit, underway in Rio de Janero, Brazil, from June 20-22.

Other members of the Coalition are, AROCHA-Ghana, Save the Frogs, Rain Forest Friends-Ghana.

The release said "The aggressive pursuit of intensive mining as a means to accelerate development is putting great pressure on Ghana's forest and critical life supporting resources."

It said the current intention of government "To turn Atewa forest, one of the country's only two up-land forest reserves into a mine", was inconsiderate and not in the best interest of the natural heritage of citizens of Ghana present and future generations.

The release said "The action aggravates the already alarming decline of forest reserves, due to deforestation, and bring untold hardship to communities living within the catchment of Atewa, and people in Accra, who depend on water sources from the area, Ayensu, Densu and Birim".

It said the forest was a repository of biodiversity, forests, wildlife and water resources of local, regional and international appeal, adding "Atewa has over 150 different species of ferns, with the Cyathea manniana, not being found anywhere else in the world".

The release proposed the establishment of a national park, that include an intact, up-land ever green forest, especially on the plateau, other alternative income generating activities such as bee-keeping, farming of native ornamental fish for aquarium trade and the raising of grass cutters and snails.**