The Achimota Forest Reserve has regained its full protected status after Cabinet revoked Executive Instrument (EI) 144, reversing a 2022 decision that removed a portion of the forest from the reserve.
The decision restores the forest to its original legal classification under the 1927 declaration, bringing back the protected status of the southern section of the reserve that had been excised four years ago.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the decision on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, during the Government Accountability Series.
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According to the Minister, Cabinet approved the revocation of EI-144, as amended by EI-234, on June 24, 2026, as part of efforts to safeguard one of Ghana’s most important urban forest reserves.
Government restores Achimota Forest Reserve protection
Government Restores Achimota Forest Reserve Protection
Mr Buah explained that the revoked Executive Instrument had been gazetted in April 2022 under the previous administration and resulted in the removal of approximately 361.5 acres from the southern portion of the Achimota Forest Reserve.
The land was subsequently returned to the Owoo family, who were identified as the pre-acquisition owners.
The move triggered widespread public debate, with environmental organisations, civil society groups and some Members of Parliament calling for the restoration of the forest’s original protected status.
The latest decision effectively reverses those legal changes and restores the reserve to its previous classification.
Achimota Forest Reserve described as Accra’s last urban forest cover
Mr Buah said the restoration demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s environment and preserving the country’s remaining urban green spaces.
He described the Achimota Forest Reserve as “the only last man standing forest cover in Accra”, stressing that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration is determined to protect it.
“This is the only last man standing forest cover in Accra, and President Mahama is determined to protect it at all costs,” Mr Buah stated.
The Minister noted that the forest plays a critical role in improving air quality, regulating the urban environment and serving as a green buffer for Accra and surrounding communities.
Environmental groups welcome protection of forest
Environmental Groups Welcome Protection of Forest
The restoration of the Achimota Forest Reserve addresses long-standing concerns raised by environmental advocates who argued that removing portions of the reserve could threaten biodiversity, urban climate resilience and future conservation efforts.
The forest, located in the heart of Ghana’s capital, remains one of Accra’s most significant natural ecosystems and provides important environmental benefits to residents.
Mr Buah said maintaining the forest’s protected status would help prevent further encroachment and ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the ecological value of the reserve.
Government’s commitment to environmental protection
The revocation of EI-144 forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen environmental protection and preserve critical natural resources.
The Lands Minister said the decision reflects the government’s belief that national development must be balanced with environmental sustainability.
He added that protecting the Achimota Forest Reserve is not only about conserving trees but also about safeguarding public health, improving urban living conditions and protecting Ghana’s natural heritage.
The government is expected to provide further details on measures to secure the reserve and prevent future threats to its boundaries.