Management of Sacred Groves and Customary Practices in Pursuit of Sustainable Forest Management

Abstract

The goal of this investigation was to identify the customary practices on sacred groves and how they can help in achieving sustainable forest management in Ghana. The study examines forest management, deforestation, and sustainable forest management concepts. A case study of Boabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary and Malshegu Sacred Groves was explored. Interviews with community members were executed. Also, some secondary data on these two sacred groves were equally examined. The study found that taboos and other cultural beliefs were used to protect the sacred grooves with little government support. The study recommends that the state should make laws through the environmental protection agency and the forestry commission to support the cultural practices to achieve sustainable forest management.