Mr. Dominic Kwasi Nyanzu, the representative for non-governmental organisations involved in Forest and Wildlife Management on the Forestry Commission Board, has paid a familiarisation visit to the Ankasa Conservation Area, Elubo, in the Western Region.
The visit, his first since the inauguration of the Forestry Commission Board, was intended to provide firsthand insight into both the achievements and challenges associated with managing one of Ghana’s most important wildlife-protected areas
Commissioner Nyanzu was received at the Old Ankasa Entrance Gate by the Park Manager, Mr. Bona Kyiire, and his team. The staff briefed him extensively on the Park’s operations, covering areas such as protection and law enforcement, ecological monitoring, tourism, and collaborative initiatives including the Community Resources Management Area (CREMA) and the Protected Area Management Advisory Unit (PAMAU).
Staff took the opportunity to outline key challenges hindering their work, notably low staffing levels, inadequate logistics, and encroachment pressures.
In his remarks, Commissioner Nyanzu emphasised that the visit highlighted the need to align policy and legislative decisions with realities on the ground. He assured staff that their dedication is recognised at the highest levels of the Commission, encouraging them to remain committed as management works to address their concerns.
In response, Ankasa staff pledged to continue protecting the Park’s unique biodiversity, and support national socio-economic development through eco-tourism, conservation, and watershed protection.
Mr. Kyiire expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s visit and appealed for sustained political and institutional support. He stressed that consistent stakeholder backing is crucial in transforming Ankasa Park into a centre of excellence for rainforest management in the sub-region.
As part of the visit, Commissioner Nyanzu toured some of Ankasa Park’s unique attractions, including the iconic Bamboo Cathedral and sections of its pristine rainforest. Transportation for the tour was generously provided by Ashanti Africa Tours, managers of the Ankasa Reserve Lodge.
The Ankasa Conservation Area comprises the Nini-Suhien National Park and Ankasa Resource Reserve. Situated in Ghana’s wet evergreen tropical high forest zone, it is one of the country’s most biodiverse Protected Areas, home to rare and threatened species such as the forest elephant, bongo, white-naped mangabey, and white-breasted guinea fowl. The Park is also renowned for its abundant rivers, including the Ankasa, Nini, and Suhien, whose cool breezes and rushing rapids remain a delight to tourists and visitors