The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has raised red flags over the environmental threats posed by illegal mining and other harmful practices in the Juaboso District, warning that they could undermine the district’s promising eco-tourism potential.
Speaking at this year’s World Tourism Day celebration held at the newly discovered Bonzain Waterfalls, Mr. Michael Kpingbi, Regional Director of the GTA, stressed the urgent need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to safeguard the area’s rich natural assets for sustainable development.
“Tourism cannot thrive in an environment heavily polluted with hazardous chemicals and metals,” Mr. Kpingbi said. “If we allow illegal mining to continue unchecked, we risk losing not just our environment, but the economic benefits that sustainable tourism can bring to local communities.”
The Bonzain Waterfalls, located in the heart of Juaboso District, were recently identified as one of several untapped natural attractions that could boost the local economy through eco-tourism. Mr. Kpingbi called on residents to become environmental stewards by resisting illegal mining and embracing practices that preserve biodiversity.
He emphasized that beyond economic gain, sustainable tourism fosters cultural appreciation, promotes community empowerment, and can serve as a tool for environmental conservation.
Local Leadership Backs Tourism Push
Nana Affum Panin II, Atipemhene of Bonzain, speaking on behalf of the Bonzain Chief, reaffirmed the traditional authority’s support for the tourism agenda. He disclosed that the community had already identified other potential eco-tourism sites and would work closely with relevant agencies to develop them responsibly.
“We understand the value tourism can bring to our people,” the chief said. “But we also recognise that this can only happen if we protect our environment.”
Assembly Pledges Infrastructure Support
Mr. Samuel Kwabena Sarfo, Acting Coordinating Director of the Juaboso District Assembly, said the local government was committed to developing tourism infrastructure in the district. He acknowledged that better road access to Bonzain Waterfalls was a top priority and pledged the Assembly’s support for initiatives that could enhance the tourism appeal of the district.
“Tourism is not just a celebration of culture and nature—it’s an economic strategy. We will give the necessary attention to Bonzain and other sites to improve the livelihoods of our people,” Mr. Sarfo noted.
Residents Echo Call for Development
Several residents who spoke with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) welcomed the attention being given to the waterfall and urged the government to follow through with road improvements, security measures, and marketing efforts to make Bonzain a recognized destination.
