| Our forefathers , or ancestors could not explain the methods as they were shrouded in mystery and secrecy and became taboos in the communities. Some forests were declared as sacred “nananom mpo” that is where the spirits of our forefathers liveed. Such forests were not to be cultivated. Certain days in a week were set aside when nobody entered the forests. It was their belief that one met a misfortune if one entered such forests on forbidden days. The beliefs and taboos concerning these sacred places were passed down the generations. There were strict observance and hence, forests and lands were preserved. Rivers and streams and water bodies had their share of these traditional protective mechanisms. Vegetations along rivers and streams and other water bodies were not to be cleared, even for agricultural purposes. The water bodies were therefore protected from excessive evaporation. There was water always in rivers and streams even during drought. It was a taboo to defaecate near a river or stream, or dump rubbish into rivers. The believe was that it led to a bad omen. The river spirit would bring a sickness or calamity to the offender. Any indecent act committed against a river had serious repercussion. Some rivers and streams were worshipped and sacrifices were made to their spirits . Rivers and streams were therefore treated with respect so as not to offend their spirits and make them angry and bring some harm or calamity to the community With the high level of scientific and technological advancement. forests are giving way to cities and industries; rivers and water bodies are no more treated with the care and respect accorded them by our ancestors. Forests are being depleted and water bodies are drying up. All over the world people are crying about the green house effect and global warming and its consequences due to man's own activities. So has science and technology done more harm than good to the environment? This is very debatable.
With best regards
D.A.Akuoko
Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ Sec Sch. School Coordinator World /I*earn - Ghana
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