SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF LOGGING ON RIVERINE COMMUNITIES ALONG THE OFFIN RIVER BASIN IN THE ASHANTI REGION OF GHANA

Loss of forest cover due to anthropogenic factors presents enormous challenges to the vulnerable forest dependent communities in terms of water supply, health, food security, employment and shelter. The study was conducted to investigate the impact of logging on the social life of the people in the riverine communities in the Tano-Offin and Tano Shelterbelts. Seven communities were covered in the study. Structured questionnaires and Satellite imagery data were collected and analysed. A total sum of 21.3% forest loss was detected in the Offin Shelterbelt and Tano Offin forest reserves over an eleven (11) year period. This may have contributed significantly to the intermittent flow of the Offin River in portions previously noted to be perennial, the prevalence of water borne diseases and guinea worm infestations, and the consequent migration of the youth to urban centres. Such a situation could have far reaching implications on these vulnerable forest dependent communities whose major source of livelihood (employment, water supply, food supply, shelter etc.) are intrinsically linked to these forests.