A Rocha Ghana, a renowned environmental conservation organization, has taken a bold step to protect Ghana’s biodiversity areas by filing an interlocutory injunction application against the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor. The organization is seeking a court order to prevent the Minister and the Forestry Commission from declassifying Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs) as logging areas, which would have devastating environmental consequences.

A Rocha Ghana’s suit also aims to obtain a perpetual injunction that would bar the Minister and the Forestry Commission from entering into any transactions, contracts, or undertakings that grant commercial timber rights in these protected areas. Furthermore, the organization is arguing that the issuance of Timber Utilisation Contracts without Parliamentary ratification is unlawful and is urging the court to declare it as such.

This move is part of A Rocha Ghana’s long-standing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable management of ecological habitats. The organization has been actively involved in various initiatives, including the launch of the Ghana Environment Manifesto 2024, which highlights the need for environmental sustainability and green development.

In September, A Rocha Ghana joined forces with six other civil society organizations to announce their intention to sue the government over illegal mining activities in forest reserves. This latest injunction application is a continuation of their efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure that the government prioritizes environmental conservation.

By taking this legal action, A Rocha Ghana is demonstrating its dedication to safeguarding Ghana’s environmental heritage and promoting sustainable development.