The management of the Asunafo-Asutifi Hotspot Intervention Area has expressed concerns regarding AROCHA Ghana’s demand for Ghana’s removal as a co-chair of the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP).
AROCHA Ghana’s request stems from the country’s ongoing struggle to control illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
However, the Asunafo-Asutifi team, committed to combating climate change through tree planting, believes that removing Ghana from the partnership is not a viable solution.
During a press conference held in Goaso, Mr. Daniel Amponsah Gyinaye, the Board Chairman of the Asunafo-Asutifi Hotspot Intervention Area, voiced his dissatisfaction with AROCHA Ghana’s position.
“We are still doing our best to address climate change, and removing Ghana from the FCLP will not resolve the issue of illegal mining,” he stated.
Instead of advocating for removal, Mr. Gyinaye urged AROCHA Ghana to collaborate with local groups to tackle the galamsey crisis, emphasizing that they share similar frustrations regarding illegal mining activities affecting their communities.
Mr. Gyinaye also highlighted the support received from various organizations in their tree-planting efforts, which are crucial in fighting climate change.
He noted that local traditional leaders have pledged not to lease their lands to illegal miners, reinforcing the community’s commitment to environmental protection.
Ghana’s contributions to global climate initiatives were underscored during the conference.
Mr. Gyinaye pointed out significant reductions in atmospheric carbon emissions, noting that in 2019,
Ghana reduced CO2 emissions by 972,465 tons, followed by a reduction of 3,379,161 tons in 2020-2021.
These achievements have led to $16 million in funding that has been used to improve livelihoods in local communities, with 69% of these benefits directly supporting local development.
