Handbook on Ecotourism Launched

/ 3 February 2022 / 0 Comments

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Forestry Commission has launched an Ecotourism handbook that would help preserve and protect the natural resources which will intend to boost the economy of the country.

The launch of the handbook was held at Shai Hills Resource Preserve on Friday 28th January 2022 and was graced by the Minister for land and natural resources, Hon. Samuel A Jinapor, the District Chief Executive Hon.Fred Offei Twum, Nene Okukrubour Tei Kwesi Agyeman V, chief of Numerous, Chief Executive of Forestry commission Mr.John Allotey among other dignitaries and stakeholders.

Delivering his speech, the DCE said “the people of Shai-Osudoku believed that the book would contribute to improving the social, economic, health and infrastructure circumstances of the District”.

He said Ecotourism is very important for protecting sensitive environmental locations, creating awareness for the protection of endangered species; minimizing the environmental impact on the earth, and more importantly, creating opportunities for income generation for the local people.

The Minister, Hon Samuel A. Jinapor also said that " Ecotourism provides an effective economic incentive for conservation and protecting the ecosystem and biodiversity, as it generates income that contributes to the growth of the national economy.

Indeed, in recent years, it has become a major boost to the economies of countries like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Rwanda, and Zambia.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Mr. John Allotey, stressed on the prospect of Ecotourism to create employment opportunities for the youth and help solve the unemployment challenge and generate significant revenue in the country.

He added that the project by the commission in partnership with the Ministry was to develop and promote Ecotourism in the country.

Mr. Bernard Asamoah Boateng, the Executive Director of the Wildlife Division gave a detailed description of the book which he says will serve as the gospel for Ecotourism in the country.