Ghana Wildlife Society & Birdlife International Support Save Atewa Campaign
The Ghana Wildlife Society together with Birdlife International have added their voice to the long standing campaign by A Rocha Ghana and the Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape, urging government not to mine Atewa forest for Bauxite. A position paper released on the subject acknowledges the fact that, the ecological integrity of the forest and its biodiversity will be seriously compromised and in the long term, deprive local communities of vital livelihood assets. The two organizations held the view that, the current intention to mine the forest will only provide a false solution to the present economic problems of Ghana and create a long-term ecological disaster, especially for the people living close to the Atewa forest as well as further weaken the commitment of government towards protecting the environment.
The Atewa Forest Reserve, also designated as a Globally Significant Biodiversity Area (GSBA), is the source of three major rivers in Ghana (River Densu, Ayensu & Birim) providing water to over 5 million people. The forest is also home to globally endangered species such as the White-naped Mangabey and several other vulnerable and endemic species.
Download the Position Paper by Ghana Wildlife Society & Birdlife International
