The Government has restored the Achimota Forest Reserve to its full protected status after Cabinet approved the revocation of Executive Instrument (EI) 144, reversing a controversial decision that removed part of the forest from the reserve.
The decision, taken by Cabinet on June 24, 2026, also revokes the amendments introduced under EI 234, effectively returning the forest to its original classification under the 1927 declaration.
Announcing the decision at the Government Accountability Series media briefing on Wednesday, July 15, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, described the move as a landmark step towards protecting one of Accra’s most important ecological assets.
“I’m happy to announce a historic Cabinet decision taken on the 24th of June 2026 to revoke Executive Instrument EI 144, as amended by EI 234, effectively ensuring that the Achimota Forest retains its original status as a forest reserve and provides an ecological safety zone for Accra and its environment,” the minister said.
EI 144, introduced in 2022, had excised about 361.5 acres from the southern section of the Achimota Forest Reserve, sparking widespread public concern and opposition from environmental groups.
According to the minister, the latest decision nullifies those legal changes and restores the forest to its original protected status.
Emphasising the significance of the forest, Hon Buah said the government is committed to preserving it for future generations.
“This is the last man standing forest cover in Accra, and President John Dramani Mahama is determined to protect it at all costs,” he stated.
