Cocoa Farmers Wreak More Havoc on Barekese Buffer Zone, Angry Youth Push Back Allegation Against Chief of Amoaman
The forest buffer zone surrounding the Barekese Dam in Ashanti Region is under increasing environmental pressure as unchecked human activities, particularly farming, continue to degrade the protected area.
The situation has raised alarm over the long-term sustainability of one of the region’s most important water sources.
According to local accounts, approximately 2.5 kilometres of the designated buffer zone, originally established to protect the dam’s catchment area has been severely degraded.
Large sections of the riverbanks along the Barekese River are now deforested, with significant portions converted into cocoa farms, reflecting a gradual but steady encroachment into the protected landscape.
The deterioration has sparked criticism of key state institutions, including the Ghana Water Company Limited, the Ghana Forestry Commission, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Some stakeholders argue that these agencies have not acted decisively enough despite repeated warnings and reports of encroachment over the years.
Tensions escalated on Friday when the Concerned Youth of Amoaman held a press conference within the affected area, expressing frustration over what they described as prolonged institutional neglect.
The group said several petitions submitted over time had not resulted in meaningful intervention, allowing the destruction to continue unchecked.
Speaking at the briefing, group president Okyere Afram alleged that individuals from nearby Asuofua township had been illegally selling portions of the protected buffer zone to farmers, further accelerating encroachment toward the riverbanks.
He, however, dismissed claims linking the Chief of Amoaman, Dr. Nana Agyenim Boateng, to the alleged land sales, describing such accusations as misleading.
The situation coincided with a site inspection by the District Chief Executive for Atwima Nwabiagya North, Mba Alambila Zechariah, accompanied by security officials.
The visit revealed the extent of environmental degradation, with the DCE expressing shock and warning that continued destruction could threaten the region’s potable water supply.
He urged all farmers operating within the buffer zone to vacate immediately and pledged to engage relevant stakeholders to address the crisis.
The Assemblyman for Achiase Electoral Area, Saeid Nuru Yahaya, also called for urgent and sustained enforcement measures to halt further deforestation.
The worsening encroachment highlights growing concerns over weak enforcement and the urgent need for coordinated action to protect the Barekese Dam catchment area, which remains a critical water source for communities across the Ashanti Region and beyond.
Ring their bell
Okyere Afram- President for Concern Youth of Amoaman
+233 53 731 5184
Agyeman- Organiser
053 884 1416
Chief of Amoaman Zongo Community
053 932 9897
