The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel A. Jinapor, has urged the Nungua Traditional Council and all stakeholders involved in the dispute over the Ramsar site to remain calm as the Ministry seeks an amicable solution to the dispute.
Speaking to the Nungua Traditional Council on Wednesday, the Minister assured all parties to the dispute that the Ministry was working to find a quick solution to the problem.
He also urged the Council to have faith in the Ministry and to give the government its full support as it mediates the various Ramsar issues.
Mr Jinapor explained that the government would regularize all state lands, adding that the challenge on the Sakumono Ramsar site would be amicably solved.
According to him, the Ramsar site core area has international and environmental significance and would continue to serve the purpose for which it was designated.
He did, however, warn that while discussions to finalize the matter are ongoing, no one should be seen carrying out any type of activity on any part of the lands.
He stated that the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has formed a task force with the responsibility of protecting the area from all types of encroachment.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Mr Henry Quartey, bemoaned the encroachment of the government lands in the region and pledged to take measures to protect the lands.
He explained that there were security concerns and that the Regional Coordinating Council would work with the Ministry of Lands to maintain peace.
On his part, the Paramount Chief of Nungua Traditional Area, Prof King Odaifio Welentsi III, commended the government’s timely intervention and lauded the Ministry for being candid and forthright with the council.
He stated that the council is deeply concerned about land encroachment and would collaborate with the state to address the issues.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
