In a recent field inspection conducted on January 19, 2024, the Inter-Ministerial/Agency Committee has unveiled alarming rates of encroachments and deforestation in key communities such as Guma site, Babadorie, Sugar Loaf, Banga Farm, and No. 2 within the Western Area Peninsula National Park (WAP-NP).
The primary objective of the extensive field monitoring exercise is to assess the extent of these encroachments and devise strategies to halt illegal activities within WAP-NP.
To combat these threats, the Inter-Ministerial/Agency Committee has declared its determination to investigate and prosecute defaulters, along with the demolition of all structures erected in protected areas.
Expressing deep concern, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, accompanied by key officials, emphasized the critical importance of water in sustaining life.
Minister Abdulai revealed that Guma, the primary water source for the entire city, relies on catchments within the WAP-NP, where rampant deforestation poses a significant risk to water security.
Minister Abdulai underscored the legal protection afforded to WAP-NP and issued a joint public notice with the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, urging an immediate cessation of illegal activities. Violations, he warned, would result in severe consequences in accordance with the law.
Highlighting the ongoing monitoring efforts, Minister Abdulai emphasized the collective responsibility needed to safeguard WAP-NP from illegal activities.
He disclosed plans to establish a hotline for public participation in reporting illicit activities within the park.
In a stern directive, Minister Abdulai called for a halt to all constructions within WAP-NP until proper demarcation is completed.
He encouraged landowners to verify their documents with government institutions before undertaking any actions within protected areas.
The Inter-Ministerial/Agency Committee is committed to regular robust field inspections to curb encroachments and lawlessness, with an additional focus on engaging residents within the greenbelt of WAP-NP to raise awareness about the consequences of illegal activities.
