Regional News of Thursday, 19 June 2014

Source: The Chronicle

Kumawu Assembly to upgrade Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary

The Sekyere Kumawu District Assembly is assessing the possibility of developing the Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary, which is 53 kilometres square, into a first class tourist attraction.

As a result, 14 members and some officials of the assembly have paid a day’s visit to the sanctuary as a follow up to the District Chief Executive’s acceptance at the last general assembly meeting, to the effect that the assembly intends to develop the Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary into a first class tourist centre.

Mr. Gideon Buabin, an officer of the District Assembly and the leader of the team, said it was the intention of the assembly to explore more avenues for revenue mobilisation to realise its developmental goals. Mr. Prince Anane Adjei, District Park Manager of the Department of Game and Wildlife, said the sanctuary, presently, falls under two administrative districts – Sekyere Kumawu and Sekyere Afram Plains.

Mr. Anane Adjei also told the team that the Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary abounds in several species of animals, including over 140 birds, 26 species of mammals, 3 species of crocodiles, and 5 species of primates (monkeys). Other attractions are the two waterfalls, varied topography of flora and fauna, historic caves, and magnificent hills.

The sanctuary has three camps at Kagyaworses, Wala and Yiribontiri, all manned by Game and Wildlife staff.

The Park Manager also explained that the purpose of establishing the Sanctuary was to protect the varied ecosystem and ecological values of the area.

Tourist activities that one can engage in during a visit to the sanctuary include a visit to the Bomfobiri and Pame waterfalls, game viewing (different species of animals), bird watching, mountain climbing (offers one panoramic view of the surroundings), trail hiking (nature walk), and camping.