Tourism takes a nosedive as forest fire ravages Afadjato

A raging forest fire has destroyed large portions of the lush vegetation on Mount Afadjato, Ghana’s highest mountain, severely impacting tourism in Liati-Wote, a resort community at its base.

The fire, which lasted three days, also destroyed farmlands and wildlife, leaving the area in ruins.

The inferno, attributed to careless charcoal burning by an individual from a neighboring community, was fueled by strong harmattan winds and dry weather.

It ravaged cocoa, coffee, plantain, maize, and cassava farms, devastating the livelihoods of at least eight farmers. Wildlife species, including antelopes, grasscutters, and butterflies, also perished.

When media visited on January 17, Liati-Wote was eerily quiet, with residents assessing their losses.

The Chief of Liati-Wote, Togbe Kordadza V, described the fire as a major blow to the community, which relies heavily on farming and tourism.

Despite knowing the charcoal burner’s identity, the chief said the community would not pursue legal action to maintain peace.

Tourism in the area has resumed after being briefly suspended for safety reasons.

The Tourist Site Manager, Albert Tawia, revealed that the fire started on January 10 and subsided by January 12.

“We don’t want fires to scare visitors away,” he added.

The fire has compounded existing challenges in Liati-Wote, including severe water shortages due to dried-up boreholes and streams, and a dusty, untarred road network.

Residents are relying on bottled water, while local lodges are providing limited water to ease the crisis.

The community is now considering forming a vigilante group to prevent future fires and ensure the protection of Mount Afadjato’s natural beauty and resources.