The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has demolished unauthorised structures encroaching on the Dodowa forest.

This follows the forest’s recent designation as a security zone.

The action addresses mounting concerns from the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs regarding the expansion of private developments into this vital green space.

The operation, carried out in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, involved not only the removal of illegal buildings but also the commencement of a tree-planting initiative aimed at rehabilitating the affected areas of the forest.

Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC, Daniel Titus Glover, highlighted the importance of the effort in a statement to the press.

“We declared the Dodowa forest and Katamanso Pinkwai forests as security zones.” Mr.  Glover explained.

He further explained that: “These are historically significant forests in Ga-Dangbe. With the support of the Forestry Commission, we are reclaiming our forest. They have provided us with trees to plant today, with the help of the District Chief Executive and local students.”

Addressing land ownership disputes, Mr. Glover noted: “I have received documents from the Regional House of Chiefs asserting that this land belongs to the Shai people. We requested that they submit their documents to the Regional Coordinating Council, but to date, we have only received documentation from the registrar.”

Mr. Glover also underscored the dual objectives of the initiative.

“Our goals are to dismantle these illegal structures and restore the forest. This area is a security zone, and we are dedicated to reclaiming control over it,” he emphasised.