Kojokperi Traditional Council Imposes Immediate Ban on Illegal Hunting across Communities

The Kojokperi Traditional Council has announced an immediate ban on all forms of illicit hunting within the Kojokperi Traditional Area.

The Traditional council cited rising environmental damage, threats to wildlife, and growing security concerns for the ban.

The directive, issued on February 27 and signed on behalf of the Paramount Chief, Kuori Musa Nadi Kibei II, by the Duang/Namuagu Kuori Sumaila Tambagi Kuon II, applies to residents across several communities, including Duang/Namaugu, Jolinbee/Jolinyiri, Challa, Kpare/Jinpensi, Kinkelee, Wahabu settlements, Vietor, and Bogipulun.

According to the council, unlawful hunting activities have increased in recent months across forests, farmlands, and surrounding lands. Authorities say the practice endangers biodiversity within the nearby Gbele Game Reserve and undermines environmental sustainability.

The statement noted that hunters have been using firearms, traps, poisons, and other destructive methods that have resulted in the killing of protected wildlife, including crocodiles, theft of domestic guinea fowls, destruction of crops such as yams, and misuse of weapons that heighten security risks.

Under the new directive:

•        All illicit hunting is strictly prohibited throughout the Traditional Area.

•        The use of unlicensed firearms, chemicals, traps, and similar methods is banned.

•        Hunting in sacred groves, community-protected lands, and farms is forbidden.

•        Selling or distributing illegally obtained bushmeat is prohibited.

The council stated it will enforce the ban in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, community watchdog committees, wildlife authorities, and other security agencies. Offenders risk confiscation of weapons and equipment, traditional sanctions and fines, and possible prosecution under Ghanaian law.

The council urged residents, particularly youth and hunters, to comply fully with the directive to safeguard wildlife, protect farmland, and maintain peace. Community leaders, assembly members, and opinion leaders have been instructed to disseminate the information widely.