Environmental activists hail banning of commercial charcoal burning, others in Ghana

By Nneka Nwogwugwu

Environmental activists have commended Savannah Regional House of Chiefs for banning commercial charcoal burning, fuel wood harvesting and rosewood activities in Ghana.

The president of the House, Yogbonwura Tuntumba Boresa II, explained that the move was to curb the gradual depletion of the region’s forest cover and degradation of the environment.

‘’This is a very good move because even though the natural resources are for our use, unregulated and or over-exploitation goes to undermine the very survival of man.

‘’The action by the chiefs undoubtedly falls in line with efforts by the government to save the environment.

‘’Besides, it indirectly tells everyone that chiefs can help the government to perform better in areas that are difficult to control by the government alone.

‘’The government should, therefore, consider restoring some of the authority of the traditional rulers which colonialism and so-called modern governance have usurped from our chiefs, ‘’ the president stated.

The Ghanaian Times called commended the chiefs’ action because the chiefs are supported in their actions targeted at the common good.