The Forestry Commission’s new governing board was formally sworn in, and its primary responsibility is to spearhead Ghana’s efforts to combat illicit mining and other dangers to the country’s forests and wildlife.
The Board’s vital role in enhancing sustainability and governance in the forestry industry was highlighted at the inauguration ceremony, which took place at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
During his speech, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources emphasized how crucial trees are to Ghana’s rural livelihoods, economy, and environment.
He voiced concern about the increasing strains caused by unregulated logging, wildfires, illicit mining (galamsey), and other damaging activities that keep the nation’s natural resources deteriorating.
“Our vision is clear—to manage Ghana’s forests and wildlife sustainably for present and future generations,” the Minister stated.
“With this highly capable Board, we are confident that the Forestry Commission will rise to these challenges with renewed vigor.”
Ghana’s forest and animal resources must be developed, managed, and protected while their appropriate use is ensured by the Forestry Commission, which is mandated by law.
Providing strategic policy direction, monitoring performance and compliance, ensuring good governance and operational efficiency, and cultivating strong stakeholder involvement are among the new Board’s primary responsibilities.
Immediate Priorities
The Minister charged the Board to focus on
• Combatting illegal mining in forest reserves through advocacy and enhanced enforcement.
• Improving staff welfare through policy reforms.
• Streamlining business processes in the timber and wildlife trade sectors.
• Securing sustainable financing for long-term sector growth.
“With your expertise and leadership, I am optimistic about the transformative impact you will bring,” he added.
The Deputy Minister, Hon. Yusif Sulemana, also assured the Board of the Ministry’s full support and urged them to execute their duties with diligence for the benefit of Ghana.
Board Chairman Prof. Martin Oteng-Ababio expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the team and pledged proactive leadership. “We recognize the gravity of our task, and though the challenges are daunting, they are surmountable. This Board will not just deliberate in meetings; we will work on the ground alongside forest guards to reclaim and protect our forests,” he affirmed.
The newly inaugurated Board comprises experts from academia, traditional leadership, industry, and civil society:
• Prof. Martin Oteng-Ababio – Chairman
• Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown – Executive Director, Forestry Commission
• Kumbun Na Yiri II – National House of Chiefs Representative
• Richard Duah Nsenkyire – Timber Trade & Industry Representative
• Tetteh-Hey Omani Osae – Wildlife Trade Industry Representative
• Dr. Abubakari Nantogmah Attah, Esq. – Ghana Institute of Professional Foresters Representative
• Dominic Kwasi Nyanzu – NGO Representative
• Surv. Raphael Hokey, Esq. – Lands Commission Representative
• Brig Gen (Rtd.) Dr. Albert Kabenlah Adu – Financial & Managerial Expert
• Nana Kojo Toku – Member
• Hon. Mavis Kukuaa Bissue, MP (Ahanta West Constituency) – Member
The Minister, on behalf of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, formally declared the Board inaugurated, marking a new chapter in Ghana’s forest conservation efforts.
Source: newsthemegh.com