The Acting Chief Executive (CE) of the Forestry Commission (FC), Dr. Hugh Brown, has called on FSD management to come together and redefine the Division’s role in protecting, managing, and developing Ghana’s forest resources. He made this call while addressing Directors and Regional Managers of FSD during the 2024 Performance Review and outlook for 2025.
Dr. Brown delivered a compelling address outlining expectations for 2025, setting the tone for strategic discussions. A major highlight of the two day event not only reviewed the 2024 performance of the Division but also examined key milestones and opportunities for growth.
In his address, the Ag. CE reflected on the challenges faced by the Division in the past year, particularly in combating illegal mining and logging. Despite these hurdles, he commended the leadership for their dedication and resilience, which led to significant achievements.
“ let’s work together to rid our forests of excavators, Chanfans, and all activities that contribute to their destruction. That would be a real achievement,” he urged.
The meeting featured statements from Mr. Yaw Atuahene-Nyarko, Director, Resource Management Support Center (RMSC); Mr. Yaw Kwakye, Director for Natural Forest; Mrs. Anne Brown, Human Resource (HR) Director; Lawyer Dennis Osei – Hwere, Director, Legal; and Rev. Carl Ahadzi Mensah, Audit Director. Also present was the Director for Plantations, Mrs. Valerie Fummey Nassah.
The Management of FSD analysed progress across the different departments and units of the Division, as their representatives shared their achievements, challenges and projections for the year under review. Issues such as the financial status of the Division, revenue trend analysis, innovative strategies, resource allocation, team efficiency, management plans, Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project (GLRSSMP), Forest Management Planning, Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project (GSLERP) updates, implementation progress, issues centered on confiscated lumber in 2024, and staffing levels were explored to ensure a productive and impactful year ahead.
Following the presentations, Mr. Yaw Kwakye outlined FSD’s strategic direction for 2025. Key initiatives included recruitment of additional staff to expand operations, Provision of 20 new operational vehicles to enhance mobility, and the organization of internal training sessions for 100 RRU personnel in collaboration with the HR Directorate.
The Ag. Chief Executive reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s forests and ensuring sustainable management of forest resources. He called on all stakeholders to play an active role in achieving this vision.
With renewed determination, the FSD is set to intensify its fight against illegal activities and strengthen forest governance to secure the nation’s green heritage for future generations.
The event concluded with a resolution to reinforcing the Division’s commitment to continuous improvement and collaborative success.
This annual gathering did not only provide a platform for reflection but also fostered a forward-thinking approach to achieving sustainable growth in 2025.