The University of Ghana (UG) has announced the upcoming reopening of the Legon Botanical Gardens, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the space as a key public green area.
In a statement issued on October 12, 2024, Dr. Elizier Taiba Ameyaw-Buronyah, UG’s Director of Public Affairs, assured the public that the Gardens will continue to operate despite rumors of its permanent closure on October 30, 2024.
The management clarified that this situation stems from the resolution of a long-standing contractual dispute with Mulch Company Limited, formerly Pine Springs Company Limited, which had been overseeing the Gardens.
The dispute originated in 2009, when UG signed an agreement with Pine Springs for the renovation and management of the Gardens.
However, the company eventually failed to fulfill its contractual obligations.
Below is UG’s full statement.
RESOLUTION OF CONTRACTUAL DISPUTE OVER MANAGEMENT OF UNIVERSITY OF GHANA BOTANICAL GARDENS
The University of Ghana announces the successful resolution of its longstanding contractual dispute with Mulch Company Limited, formerly Pine Springs Company Limited, regarding the management of the University of Ghana Botanical Gardens. Following a legal process that affirmed the University’s position, Mulch Company Limited agreed to cease its operations and vacate the Gardens by November 30, 2024.
In 2009, the University entered into an agreement with Pine Springs Company Limited (now Mulch Company Limited) for the renovation and management of the Botanical Gardens.
However, over the years, the company refused to fulfil its contractual obligations to the University. After extensive negotiations and legal proceedings, the University has been granted control of the Botanical Gardens.
The University of Ghana is committed to preserving and enhancing the Botanical Gardens as a place of beauty, learning, research and recreation, contributing to the University’s mission of promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.
The University assures the public that the Legon Botanical Gardens will continue to operate as a green space for the community. Following a period of repairs and renovations, the Botanical Gardens will reopen to the public, fulfilling its intended purpose as a vital green zone.
