The Journalists for Responsible Fisheries and Environment (JRFE) has commended the Government of Ghana for revoking Executive Instrument (E.I.) 144, describing the decision as a landmark step towards environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
In a statement issued on 15 July 2026, the environmental advocacy organisation praised the government's directive to immediately revoke E.I. 144, a move that restores the Achimota Forest to its full legal status as a protected Forest Reserve.
According to JRFE, the decision demonstrates government's commitment to safeguarding Ghana's natural resources and preserving one of the country's most significant urban forests for future generations.
The organisation noted that the Achimota Forest plays a critical role in climate resilience by serving as an important carbon sink, protecting biodiversity, improving air quality, moderating urban temperatures and providing valuable ecological and recreational benefits for residents.
JRFE further observed that the revocation of E.I. 144, which had previously excluded approximately 361.5 acres of the forest from legal protection, sends a strong message that Ghana is prepared to prioritise environmental stewardship over competing land-use interests.
The organisation congratulated the Government, Cabinet, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Forestry Commission and all institutions that contributed to the restoration of the reserve.
It also acknowledged the sustained advocacy efforts of civil society organisations, environmental campaigners, traditional authorities, media practitioners and concerned citizens whose persistent calls helped keep the Achimota Forest conservation agenda in the national spotlight.
While welcoming the government's action, JRFE stressed that restoring the forest's legal status should mark the beginning of stronger conservation efforts rather than the end of the process.
The organisation called for enhanced legal safeguards to prevent future attempts to declassify protected forests without adequate public consultation and parliamentary oversight where applicable.
It also recommended stricter enforcement against encroachment, illegal construction, logging, waste dumping and other activities that threaten the ecological integrity of the reserve.
Among its recommendations were the clear demarcation of forest boundaries using modern mapping technologies, the implementation of a comprehensive forest management plan, increased investment in ecological restoration through indigenous tree planting, greater community participation in conservation activities and improved public access to information on forest management and land-use decisions.
JRFE reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with government institutions, the Forestry Commission, civil society organisations, development partners and local communities to promote evidence-based environmental journalism, public education and accountability in the management of Ghana's natural resources.
The organisation expressed optimism that the restoration of the Achimota Forest Reserve would become a national model for protecting other threatened forests, wetlands and coastal ecosystems across the country.
It noted that conserving these ecosystems is essential for strengthening climate resilience, protecting biodiversity, sustaining livelihoods and improving the health and well-being of present and future generations.
The statement, signed by Kingsley Nana Buadu, Executive Director of JRFE, concluded by congratulating the Government of Ghana and urging all citizens to support efforts to preserve the Achimota Forest as one of the nation's most valuable ecological assets.
Advocacy Perspective
The restoration of the Achimota Forest Reserve represents more than an environmental policy decision—it is a significant investment in Ghana's climate resilience, public health and sustainable urban development. As cities continue to expand and natural ecosystems face increasing pressure from human activities, the protection of urban forests has become essential for mitigating the impacts of climate change, improving air quality and preserving biodiversity.
Achimota Forest is a national ecological treasure whose conservation contributes directly to Ghana's commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Climate Agreement and global biodiversity targets. Sustaining this achievement will require continuous political commitment, effective law enforcement, transparent governance and active citizen participation. By working together, government, civil society, the media and local communities can ensure that Ghana's protected forests remain resilient natural assets that support environmental sustainability and national development for generations to come.
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