Residents of Wa-Sombo are voicing deep concern over the widespread and indiscriminate cutting of shea trees, a practice they say threatens both their livelihoods and the local environment. The felling of these economically vital trees—mainly for charcoal production and firewood—has become increasingly rampant, raising fears about long-term ecological damage. Community members expressed alarm about the reckless destruction of shea trees, which remain a major source of income for many households, particularly women.
According to residents, the community and the wider Upper West Region could face severe environmental consequences if the trend continues unchecked. They called on Municipal and District Assemblies, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency, to work closely with traditional leaders and landowners to introduce and enforce by-laws aimed at curbing charcoal production. They further appealed for stronger enforcement of existing national environmental laws to ensure that offenders are prosecuted, serving as a deterrent to others engaged in the illegal practice.
The concerns were raised on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, during an interaction with the Home Radio news team, which visited the area to assess the situation. Residents lamented the ongoing deforestation and urged authorities to intensify public education initiatives to protect the shea tree population and safeguard the region’s ecological balance.
By Romanus Bombe Kyi-Era.
