Mankranso: Farmers lose faith in Tree Tenure Scheme amid illegal logging concerns
But that promise is now being overshadowed by fear, frustration and allegations of illegal logging on farms where trees have been planted and nurtured for years.
Mankranso farmers are losing confidence in the Tree Tenure Scheme due to concerns over illegal logging. The Director of the National Timber Monitoring Team, Alhaji Mohammed Kwaku Doku, reports that many farmers have withdrawn from the scheme because they fear they won't benefit from the trees they protect. He claims armed chainsaw operators have invaded some farmer-owned plantations, harvesting mature trees and endangering both farmers and forest guards.
A recent clash between forest guards and illegal chainsaw operators turned violent. Doku's comments highlight the growing distrust among farmers who were previously encouraged to participate in sustainable forest management. Meanwhile, timber traders in Kumasi allege that security and forestry task forces engage in intimidation and extortion during inspections and timber transportation, demanding unofficial payments for documentation.
These traders are urging the government to streamline the documentation process and ensure legitimate payments go to the state, rather than individuals. The National Timber Monitoring Team insists that timber operators must have proper documentation before transporting their products. However, the team emphasizes that licensed operators will not face obstacles if they adhere to government regulations and documentation.
For Mankranso farmers, the issue goes beyond paperwork. They worry about their safety on their land and whether the trees they nurture will eventually benefit them. Until these concerns are addressed, efforts to promote community participation in sustainable forest management may face significant setbacks.
Written by urgent.news from 3News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
