A young Ghanaian innovator has developed the country’s first-ever board and mobile games designed to raise awareness and promote action against deforestation and illegal mining (galamsey).
The games — Forest Defender (board version) and Eco Quest (mobile app) — combine fun, education, and environmental advocacy to engage children, students, and communities in protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
According to the developer, the goal is to make environmental education more interactive and appealing, especially among young people, who play a crucial role in shaping sustainable habits for the future.
In Forest Defender, players take on the role of conservation heroes working to restore forests, prevent illegal mining, and balance development with environmental protection. The mobile version, Eco Quest, features challenges, quizzes, and virtual missions that reward users for making eco-friendly choices.
The innovator explained that both games were inspired by the growing destruction of Ghana’s forest reserves and the urgent need for creative tools to support the fight against galamsey.
“We can’t keep preaching without changing how people learn. These games teach environmental values through play, making the message stick longer,” the developer said.
Environmental groups and educators have praised the initiative as a groundbreaking way to promote climate education and youth participation in sustainability efforts.
The games are expected to be piloted in selected schools and communities across Ghana before a nationwide rollout in 2026.
