Gyadam (Ash), Aug. 27, GNA - Communities along the Pra-Anum forest reserve in the Asante-Akim South District, have renewed calls on the government to release portions of the reserve for residents to farm on.

The communities, which include Gyadam, Amantia, Muronaim, Banka and Tokwai, are predominantly farmers but have been debarred from cultivating the forest for farm. The concern of the people was said to dates back to 1907 when the then colonial government, placed a ban on the forest following a protracted dispute between the Akyems and the people of Adansi over the ownership of the forest. The people raised these sentiments on Tuesday when the District Chief Executive, Mr Abdul Karim Boakye-Yiadom, embarked on a familiarisation tour of the area. They said they have been denied of access to the forest, which had affected their livelihood since they were left with limited land portion to cultivate. Another major issue they raised was the growth in population in the area over the years, which had been compounded by the stoppage of the payment of royalties to the chiefs. The people said a Social Responsibility Agreement (SRA) between the communities and timber contractors to undertake some meaningful projects had been flouted by the contractors with impunity. Reacting to some of the issues, the DCE said, the assembly together with the Member of Parliament, Mrs Gifty Ohene Konadu were liaising with the Ministry of Mines, Lands and Forestry to address the problem.

He said enquiry by the assembly indicated that the royalties were being paid into government chest and gave the assurance that the assembly would work to ensure that the right thing was done. Mr Boakye-Yiadom said the assembly would also impress on the timber contractors to respect the agreement between them and the communities to ensure mutual benefit and peace.