Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, along with the Guma Valley Water Company (GVWC), has expressed strong opposition to a proposed re-demarcation of the Western Area Peninsula National Forest Park (WAPNP).
This proposal, detailed in a recent Joint Rapid Assessment Report by the National Protected Area Authority and the Ministry of Lands, Country Planning and Housing, suggests a reduction of the park’s area by 5,000 hectares, or 28.9%.
In their joint statement, the agencies acknowledged issues such as illegal deforestation and land grabbing, but emphasised that the redefinition of the Green Belt boundary would severely threaten water security, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability in Freetown.
Key concerns include:
Threat to Water Supply: GVWC relies entirely on the WAPNP for raw water, serving over one million residents. Encroachment near key infrastructure poses significant risks.
Future Project Risks: Planned dam projects essential for water storage and ecosystem protection are now threatened by the proposed changes.
Environmental Impact: The park is critical for biodiversity and eco-tourism; further degradation could endanger wildlife.
Increased Flood Risks: Continued deforestation could exacerbate flooding and landslide risks in surrounding areas.
The Ministry and GVWC urge for sustainable management of the WAPNP to protect Freetown’s vital water resources and environmental health.
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