Natural Resources
Western Africa’s biological resources have allowed the indigenous societies to survive. The locals have developed knowledge systems and practised traditions which have protected and conserved plants, animals, water resources and other components of their life support systems. In Ghana, sacred groves protect biodiversity in three different ways: by protecting particular ecosystems or
habitats, by protecting particular animal or plant species, and by regulating the exploitation of natural resources (Ntiamoa-Baidu 1995). Many plant species are also used in Ghana in traditional herbal medicines, and the Kakum National Park in Ghana, with its canopy walkway, attracts thousands of visitors a year, helping to boost the economy as well as awareness of environmental issues.
habitats, by protecting particular animal or plant species, and by regulating the exploitation of natural resources (Ntiamoa-Baidu 1995). Many plant species are also used in Ghana in traditional herbal medicines, and the Kakum National Park in Ghana, with its canopy walkway, attracts thousands of visitors a year, helping to boost the economy as well as awareness of environmental issues.