The Forestry Commission has sought the support of the Nungua Traditional Council in its renewed effort to protect the Sakumo Ramsar Site from illegal encroachment.
The report indicates that the Forestry Commission has sought the support of the Nungua Traditional Council in its renewed effort to protect the Sakumo Ramsar Site from illegal encroachment.
It further notes that the Chief Executive of the Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, led a delegation to the Nungua Mantse Palace as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration with traditional authorities in the Sakumo catchment area.
The engagement was aimed at safeguarding the ecological integrity of the protected wetland and addressing the growing threat of encroachment by estate developers and private individuals.
Dr. Brown stated the Sakumo Ramsar Site remains a major ecological resource with multiple benefits, including flood control, water retention, biodiversity conservation and support for local livelihoods.
He explained that while the core zone serves as the main water retention area, the buffer zone provides critical ecological support by absorbing excess water and protecting the integrity of the wetland.
Given the role of traditional authorities as custodians of land, Dr. Brown stated their active support was critical to preserving natural reserves, including wetlands.
He also cautioned prospective land buyers against acquiring land within the protected area.
The Nungua Mantse, Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, assured the Forestry Commission of the full support of the Nungua Traditional Council in protecting the Ramsar Site.
He urged officials of the Commission to be firm in the discharge of their mandate, particularly in the protection of natural reserves, which he stated are of immense ecological value.
The Nungua Mantse also denied claims that he had authorised the sale of any land within the Sakumo Ramsar Site.
“I have never authorised the sale of any land within the Sakumo Ramsar Site,” he said.
He stated although several land documents bearing what appeared to be his signature had surfaced, he had neither signed nor approved any transaction involving land within the protected wetland.
He cautioned members of the public against engaging individuals or groups claiming to sell plots of land within the Ramsar Site, describing such acts as fraudulent.
“I am committed to the conservation of the Ramsar Site because the protection of the wetland remains essential for the well-being of both present and future generations,” he said.
