The Forestry Commission has announced that Ghana’s timber export value for the third quarter of 2024 reached 92.6 million euros, out of a target of 145 million euros. This was disclosed by the Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Mr. John Allotey.
According to Mr. Allotey, the export timber volume was 207,902 m3, while the production of domestic lumber was 489,977 m3. The top five timber exports are lumber (air-dried and kiln-dried), billets, plywood, and rotary veneer.
Mr. Allotey made this announcement at the Chief Executive’s award and recognition ceremony in Accra. He also highlighted the Commission’s efforts to promote healthier lifestyles among staff members through its annual Health Week celebration.
In addition, the Commission trained 447 staff in different fields to enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Commission’s training centre, in collaboration with the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, also inaugurated the Certificate in Natural Resource Management course on July 15, 2024.
Mr. Allotey noted that 67 freshmen, comprising 53 males and 14 females, were matriculated to start the maiden 18-month course. He also announced that the 2024 edition of the Green Ghana Day committed to planting 10 million seedlings.
Furthermore, the Commission met with representatives of traditional authorities and timber industry players to increase the Timber Stumpage fees to 40 per cent, effective September 15, 2024. This review was necessary due to the depreciation of the local currency and high inflation rates.
The Commission set an annual 20,000-hectare target for both government and private plantations. As of September 2024, 11,743 hectares of degraded land had been planted by both the Commission and the private sector. Additionally, a total area of 29,388 hectares of established plantations had been maintained.
The Forest Service Division, with the support of the Rapid Response Unit, has also stepped up efforts to combat illegal mining in the country. As of the end of November, 525 persons were arrested and are being prosecuted, while various equipment used in illegal offences was confiscated or demobilised.
Ghana is set to deliver its first consignment of Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licensed timber to the European Union (EU) by June 30, 2025. This milestone will make Ghana the second country in the world, after Indonesia, and the first African country to comply with the EU FLEGT regulation on timber and timber products.
Mr. Akwasi Konadu, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, commended the staff for their remarkable performances in meeting the mandate of the Commission. He urged them to continue working harder and justify their award. Staff who distinguished themselves were awarded for their contribution to the growth of the Commission, receiving GH¢3,000 each, a fridge, a television, and a certificate.
