The Sekyere Kumawu District Manager of the Wildlife Division of Forestry Commission has cautioned residents in the park’s surrounding communities to stay away from the Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mr Fuseini Damma warned that authorities will not entertain any kind of encroachment or illegal activities within the park.
The district wildlife manager said poaching or illegal hunting has been a major challenge in the management of the sanctuary.
Mr. Fuseini Damma sounded the caution during engagement with journalists regarding the daily activities in the management and conservation of the park and sanctuary.
The manager pointed out that wildlife protected areas are no go areas for any form of illegal activities especially poaching and farming.
He said the park is protected for its important environmental and economic biodiversity as the park is designated for the purpose of recreation and eco-tourism.
He noted that though illegal hunting within the sanctuary has been very minimal since 2022, yet stressed on the need for management to intensify efforts to ensure the total protection of the park and its biodiversity.
Mr Damma urged individuals who want to engage in hunting to secure permit from the commission and its alied institutions and agencies.
He explained that the Wildlife Division of the commission annually issues hunting permits for some specific animal species like grass cutters.
He said these permits are to be used outside the protected areas between the months of August and December.
He warned that any person caught hunting within the sanctuary with or without the necessary permit will be dealt with accordingly.
Mr Fuseini Damma urged the public to develop interests in the conservation of the sanctuary and the park for a sustainable future.
He also encouraged the public to visit the park and it’s sanctuary for recreational activities.
He said visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as bird watching, swimming in the parks waterfalls, hiking, camping mountain climbing and game viewing for to refresh their mental health and well-being.
