The newly appointed Acting(Ag) Deputy Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission(FC), Mr. Elikem Kotoko, and Ag. HR Director, Dr Gordon Kofi Sarfo- Adu, visited Timber Industry Development Division(TIDD) Headquarters and the Wildlife Division(WD) Regional Office in Takoradi as part of their working visit to the Western Region.
The purpose of the visit, according to the Ag. HR Director, was to provide the Deputy Chief Executive an opportunity to interact with staff of the Divisions in the Region and also have an understanding of the operations and key initiatives of the Divisions.
The Ag. Executive Director of TIDD, Dr. Richard Gyimah, in his remarks, welcomed the Deputy CE and the HR Director to the Division’s Headquarters. Dr. Gyimah provided a comprehensive overview of TIDD’s activities, challenges, and future plans. He highlighted the Division’s commitment to promoting sustainable and legal timber supply chains, supporting the growth of Ghana’s timber industry, and ensuring responsible management of forest resources.
The meeting was also attended by the Western and Central Regional Manager of the Wildlife Division,Mr.Richard Ofori- Amanfo and staff of WD in Takoradi, who joined the discussion to share their perspectives and activities.Mr.Ofori-Amanfo presented an overview of the WD’s work in the Region, highlighting their efforts to protect endangered species,manage wildlife population and promote sustainable tourism.
The Deputy Chief Executive, Mr. Elikem Kotoko in his address, emphasised the importance of creativity and innovation in driving progress, urging TIDD staff to explore new ways to improve their work. He also stressed the need to increase TIDD’s profile through increased advocacy, highlighting its achievements and its vital role within the Forestry Commission. Furthermore, Mr. Kotoko commended Dr. Gyimah for his strong leadership and collaborative approach, emphasising the importance of teamwork in achieving the Forestry Commission goals. He also encouraged staff to utilise official emails for communication and to adopt environmental conscious practices reflecting the Forestry Commission commitment to responsible resource management.
During the visit, the Deputy Chief Executive and the HR Director engaged in discussion with TIDD staff, gaining valuable insights into the Division’s operations and the challenges they face. They also shared their vision for the future of the Forestry Commission, emphasising the need for innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to regulating the utilisation of timber products through best practices.
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening communication and collaboration between FC Headquarters and the Divisions in the Region. The visit underscored the FC’s commitment to supporting TIDD’s vital role in providing regulatory services and driving the growth of Ghana’s timber industry and trade.
Similarly, the visit emphasised FC’s commitment to promote ecotourism and make WD more business-oriented whilst balancing conservation values.
