The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has confirmed that 262 acres of the Achimota Forest will be returned to its original custodians, the Owoo family.
This decision, which has stirred public debate, follows President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s Executive Instrument 144, initially proposing the reclassification of 362 acres of forest land for the family’s return.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Jinapor clarified that the process of returning the land began under the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama.
“This decision dates back to 2013, when President Mahama’s government first approved the land’s return, with cabinet approval granted on September 5 of that year,” he explained.
Mr. Jinapor emphasized that the current government is obligated to honor decisions made by its predecessors, who had already processed leases for the entire 362 acres.
However, in response to environmental concerns, the Minister announced that negotiations with stakeholders of the Achimota Forest led to a reduction in the land to be released, cutting the acreage by 100 acres.
“We have put strict safeguards in place to ensure that no one can claim the land without adhering to specific conditions, given the forest’s critical ecological value,” he assured.
The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s public lands, stating, “Our government has implemented significant measures to safeguard public lands from encroachment, illegal acquisitions, and other threats that have plagued Ghana’s land sector for decades.”
Mr. Jinapor emphasized that all land transactions conducted under this government have strictly followed due process, adhering to the laws and regulations governing public lands.
He further highlighted several initiatives the government has undertaken to enhance the protection and management of public lands, underscoring the administration’s dedication to preserving Ghana’s natural resources.
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