GAEC Clarifies Tree Felling Along Atomic-Kwabenya Road, Reaffirms Commitment to Environmental Protection

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has responded to concerns raised by environmental advocacy group A ROCHA Ghana regarding the felling of trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya Road, emphasising that the action was necessary for public safety and was carried out in full compliance with regulatory guidelines.

In a statement issued by Anthony Nana Boateng, Director of the Commercialisation and Communication Directorate at GAEC, the Commission acknowledged A ROCHA Ghana’s concerns and reiterated its own commitment to sustainable urban development.

However, GAEC clarified that only hazardous trees were removed, following a comprehensive stakeholder consultation and environmental risk assessment.

“Some of the trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya main road have stood for more than 50 years. Due to erosion, their roots have become exposed, and many have developed large branches that interfere with power lines,” the statement read.

According to GAEC, several incidents in 2024 involving the uprooting and collapse of trees—caused by storms and heavy rains—resulted in property damage and posed serious threats to motorists. These incidents prompted the formation of a multi-agency stakeholder committee in June 2024 to assess the risks and recommend a course of action.

The stakeholder meeting included representatives from GAEC, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ga-East Municipal Assembly, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), the Forestry Commission, and the Ghana Police Service. After a thorough audit of the trees by GAEC and the Forestry Commission, eight mahogany trees and six Leucaena trees were marked for removal, with an additional 43 mahogany trees approved for pruning.

“The Forestry Commission granted GAEC permission to carry out the exercise under strict guidelines. The tree felling, which took place on May 20, 2025, was funded by the ECG,” GAEC explained.

Importantly, GAEC emphasized that all felled or uprooted trees will be replaced with new ones as part of an environmental restoration plan guided by the Forestry Commission.

“We want the public to be confident that GAEC does not, and will not, engage in indiscriminate felling of trees. As an institution mandated to apply nuclear science peacefully, environmental protection remains central to our mission,” said Anthony Nana Boateng.

GAEC noted its long-standing support for environmental and climate initiatives, citing its consistent participation in the national Green Ghana campaign and its record of planting hundreds of trees in collaboration with the Forestry Commission.

The Commission concluded by expressing willingness to work closely with A ROCHA Ghana and other stakeholders to maintain and enhance the green environment within its enclave.

“We will continue to foster collaborative approaches with institutions like A ROCHA Ghana in promoting urban greenery and ensuring the safety of the public,” the statement added.

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