The Forestry Commission has issued a strong call to action, urging farmers to shift away from the long-standing practice of bush burning, citing severe environmental and economic consequences.
According to Mr. Emmanuel Boapeng, Project Coordinator for the Ghana Shea Landscape and Emissions Reduction Project, bushfires remain a persistent threat to soil health, biodiversity, and climate stability—with ripple effects on agricultural productivity and food security.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tamale, Mr. Boapeng warned that setting fire to weeds and dry bushes is not only damaging farmlands but is also undermining national efforts to combat climate change.
“Each time a bushfire is started, greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere, accelerating global warming,” Boapeng said. “Beyond that, these fires destroy crops, kill livestock, and wipe out habitats in our forestry reserves—endangering both rural economies and ecosystems.”
He pointed out that frequent bushfires contribute to the loss of soil nutrients, making farmlands less fertile over time and reducing yields—particularly in northern Ghana, where many depend on agriculture for survival.
Mr. Boapeng encouraged farmers to adopt environmentally responsible methods for weed control and land preparation. He highlighted the use of organic composting and mulching, which not only suppress weeds but also enrich the soil.
“We want to see a transition to sustainable farming practices that preserve the land for future generations,” he added, underscoring that climate-smart agriculture is critical to ensuring long-term resilience in Ghana’s farming communities.
The Forestry Commission is rolling out sensitization campaigns and support programs under the Ghana Shea Landscape project to promote awareness of bushfire dangers and train farmers in alternative land management techniques.
As the dry season approaches, Mr. Boapeng’s message is clear: bushfires are not just a traditional practice—they are a threat to national development, environmental health, and the fight against climate change.
“We all have a role to play in protecting our environment,” he said. “Let’s leave behind the matches and embrace the methods that build a greener future.”
