Aggrieved concerned youth of Amoaman in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region are calling for immediate action to halt the encroachment of forest reserves around the Barekese Dam.
The encroachment, they have indicated, poses a serious threat to water supply to parts of Greater Kumasi since the Ghana Water Company Limited relies heavily on the dam to supply water to many areas in the Ashanti region.
Addressing the press on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, the group expressed deep regret about the 80 per cent reduction in forest cover due to the encroachment of the land for cocoa plantation and other activities.
In an interview with Channel One News, the spokesperson of the group, Okyere Afram, emphasised their concerns, warning of a looming water crisis in parts of Greater Kumasi if the encroachment is not stopped immediately.
Afram further highlighted the dangers of cocoa farming and other activities near the dam, saying, “Aside the selling of lands to those who are putting up their houses and other things over there, some individuals too are engaging in cocoa farming activities. It’s about 3km from the concern and we fear that you see, if measures are not taken, they will destroy the dam.”
“When the dam is destroyed, it is going to affect all of us. Not me alone, not you alone, but it’s going to affect all of us. That is our major concern.”
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