Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), Ophelia Mensah Hayford, has disclosed that Ghana has witnessed a staggering 30% reduction in its forest cover over the last two decades due to agricultural expansion, logging, and mining activities.
In her capacity as both Minister and Member of Parliament for Mfantsiman, Madam Mensah Hayford underscored the adverse consequences of this significant loss, including soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and diminished water retention capacity.
Of particular concern are the Upper East and Upper West Regions, which have borne the brunt of environmental degradation owing to extensive deforestation.
These remarks were delivered during the Environmental Protection Agency’s commemoration of World Environment Day in Accra.
“Regular drought now has a disastrous impact on agriculture, water supply and food security, especially in the Northern Regions. Crop yields have decreased, and drought susceptibility has grown,” she said.
The event featured an exhibition to commemorate the day, which was celebrated under the theme “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”
Ghana’s specific theme for the day was “Desertification and Drought Resilience – Journey to a Greener Future,” reflecting the nation’s focus on combating desertification and enhancing drought resilience.
The purpose of the event was to raise awareness and foster initiatives aimed at cultivating a sustainable and eco-friendly future for Ghana.