Saudi Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences (SJHSS)
Volume-1 | Issue-02 | 48-54
Original Research Article
Desertification of the Savanna: Illegal Logging of
Issahaku Abdul-Rahaman, Jacob Kabanda, Maurice M. Braimah
Published : May 28, 2016
Abstract
Illegal logging of rosewood has become an environmental concern in the Northern Region of Ghana. Some
affected districts in the region include; West Gonja, Central Gonja, East Gonja and Kpandai Districts. This study was
conducted on illegal logging of Rosewood in Northern Ghana using Kabonwule in the Kpandai district as a case study
because of the varied domestic uses of rosewood and the implications of its depletion. The study design adopted was a
combination of qualitative and quantitative research approaches while the research methodology was case study and
descriptive survey. The sample frame was 350 with a sample size of 70. Data was collected using interview guides,
analyzed and presented in tables using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) version 16. Results of the study
indicated that illegal logging of Rosewood was a major environmental problem in the study area. Estimates by affected
farmers indicated large scale destruction of farm lands by illegal logging of rosewood. High demand for Rosewood and
corruption were concluded as the main causes of the illegal logging activity. Government should review existing laws to
ensure that punishments for illegal logging activities are severe enough to discourage perpetrators.