Exactly two weeks ago, at the Adonten Odwira Festival at Aburi in the Eastern Region, the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, assured Ghanaians of the government’s intention to give the Aburi Botanical Gardens a major facelift.
The government's announcement to rehabilitate this beloved landmark has sparked excitement among nature enthusiasts, locals and tourists alike, especially as the initial work has stalled.
According to him, the Aburi Botanical Gardens held “deep cultural, ecological”, and touristic value, and that explains the importance the government attaches to it.
“The government acknowledges the urgent need to upgrade, protect and preserve the Aburi Botanical Gardens, one of Ghana’s iconic landmarks”.
The Daily Graphic is equally excited that the Aburi Botanical Gardens is getting the much-needed facelift.
The government plans to redevelop the Gardens, along with other popular parks and museums, to boost tourism.
This initiative aims to restore its former glory and make it an even more attractive destination for locals and international visitors.
The rehabilitation project includes constructing an entrance gate, a car park, a stage at an event venue, an exit gate and washrooms.
Although the project was initially expected to be completed by March 2022, it's been delayed due to funding issues, with only 33.33 per cent of the work done so far.
Occupying an area of 64.8 hectares, the Aburi Botanical Gardens has been a cherished part of Ghana’s ecology.
It is a serene oasis in the Eastern Region.
Established in the late 1800s, the Gardens has long been a haven for relaxation, recreation and education.
However, years of neglect have taken a toll on its infrastructure and facilities.
The redevelopment project aims to restore the gardens' former glory, making it an even more attractive destination.
Most adults would remember excursions to the garden as part of a school’s co-curricular activity or a church group, society or association’s outing.
It was there that children got to learn the scientific names of plants and trees, some of which stayed with them into adulthood.
The adventure those days opened up the world of botany, the scientific names of plants and trees, and the potential careers in the field.
Historically, the site of the gardens was previously a sanatorium for the Gold Coast Government officials.
It also contributed to the cocoa sector by providing cocoa seedlings and technical information to the farmers.
Gardens are relaxing environments.
Humans are motivated exceptionally when in natural and relaxed environments, which gardens offer.
They are recreational, relaxing and learning environments where we are inspired to innovate.
Thus, in developed justifications, green belts within cities ensure buffers for human development and humane living.
The Aburi Botanical Gardens is a significant tourist attraction, welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually, and its redevelopment is expected to increase tourism revenue.
The project also involves privatisation or public-private partnerships to ensure effective management and maintenance.
As the project progresses, Ghanaians and visitors eagerly await the Gardens' reopening.
The Aburi Botanical Gardens has the potential to become a premier eco-tourism destination, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
The government's initiative to rehabilitate the Gardens is a step in the right direction.
It is a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment to preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
