'We are ready to support mining companies to protect the environment'

Forestry Commission says its doors are open to support mining companies, which have acquired the necessary documentation to undertake exploration, especially in forest reserves, to ensure the protection of the environment.

Mr Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, the Chief Executive of the Commission, said the move to work together with the mining companies would ensure the preservation and the integrity of the flora and fauna within the forest reserves.

He was speaking at an event where Onex International, a mining company, presented a Toyota Hilux vehicle and accessories to the Commission to help it in the monitoring and enforcement of exploration and prospecting activities by Fasoh Multi in the Upper Wassaw Forest Reserve in the Bibiani Forest District.

Aside the field equipment, the company also presented tents, camp bed, camp tables and camp chairs, mosquito nets, raincoats and wellington boots to the 12 forest guards, who would be stationed at Bibiani to undertake the monitoring.

Describing the move as an important milestone in mining in forest reserves, Mr Afriyie said Onex, has all the permits and documentation from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission to undertake exploration and prospect in some areas of the forest reserves.

He said it is refreshing to see a company, which is ready to support the Commission to undertake the monitoring and enforcement activities to avoid the destruction of the forest.

Meanwhile, the Forestry Commission has presented two motorbikes to the Achimota School District to help fight crime within its areas of jurisdiction.

Presenting the motorbikes to the District Commander Superintendent Christine Srofenyoh, Mr John Allotey, the Deputy Chief Executive of the Commission, said the assistance underscored the cordial relationship between the two institutions.

He expressed the hope that the logistical support would go a long way to fight attacks in the Achimota Forest especially during the Christmas festivities.

Receiving the motorbikes, Superintendent Srofenyoh said the support would go a long way to ensure that the Police deliver on their mandate.