The Big Tree (Akim Oda)
The enormous tree near the town of Akim Oda, which is 66.5 m (218 ft) tall and 396 cm (13 ft) in circumference, is thought to be the tallest tree ever discovered in Ghana and West Africa, according to Ghana’s Forestry Authority. It belongs to the Tieghemella heckelii species. It’s about 22 kilometers from Akim Oda in the Esen Apam Forest Reserve, around 300 meters (1,000 feet) off the Oda-Agona Swedru trunk road.
The tree is estimated to be between 350 and 400 years old, with a low natural generational success rate, which contributes to its extinction risk.
History
The discovery of the tree is the subject of numerous spiritual legends. The tree is thought to have been discovered several years ago by Yaw Andoh, a hunter from Akim Asanteman.
Beliefs
The tree functions as both a spiritual and a heritage object. There is speculation that it is the work of spiritual forces. As a result, many people who come to see the tree offer sacrifices, prayers, and gifts. The tree is also said to be capable of healing a sick person who comes to the place to conduct the proper rites. Others believe that infertile women can conceive when they utilize the tree’s leaves and bark as herbs.
Tourism
The tree is cylindrical and has a thick grey bark. Tourists are drawn to it because it is longitudinally ridged with cut brilliant pink leaves.
The tree has drawn visitors from all around the world, particularly from the Indian and Asian continents.