Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has disclosed that the Executive Instrument (E.I.) 144 which removed part of the Achimota Forest from the reserve four years ago has been revoked by Cabinet.
This restores the forest to its original classification under the 1927 declaration, bringing an end to the legal changes introduced in 2022 that excised about 361.5 acres from the southern portion of the reserve.
Speaking at a media briefing as part of the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah disclosed that Cabinet, on June 24, 2026, approved the revocation of EI-144, as amended by EI-234, to restore the forest reserve’s original legal status.
He averred the decision forms part of the Government’s efforts to preserve the Achimota Forest Reserve, which he described as Accra’s largest remaining urban forest.
The Ellembelle lawmaker explained that EI-144, which was gazetted in April 2022 under the Akufo-Addo administration, removed about 361.5 acres from the southern section of the reserve and returned the land to the Owoo family, identified as the pre-acquisition owners.
The decision generated public debate and drew criticism from environmental groups, civil society organisations and some Members of Parliament, who called for the restoration of the forest’s protected status.
Mr. Buah expressed President Mahama’s commitment to protect the area as the remaining ecosystem in the capital. “This is the only last man standing forest cover in Accra, and President Mahama is determined to protect it at all costs.”
He said the Achimota Forest Reserve plays an important role in protecting the environment, improving air quality and serving as a green buffer for Accra and nearby communities.
Mr Buah said restoring the reserve’s full protected status reflected the government’s intention to preserve the forest for future generations and prevent further encroachment.
