The Forestry Commission (FC) has held a stakeholders’ interaction with the Management Committee of the International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO).
The session was attended by the Deputy Chief Executive, Mr. Nyadia Sulemana Nelson, management and staff of the Commission.
Mrs. Joyce Ofori- Kwafo, Manager, Corporate Affairs and Media Relations Unit, conducted a round of introduction of the two sides to create a level of familiarity.
Mrs. Valerie Fummey- Nassah, Director of Operations,Plantations, Forest Services Division (FSD), in delivering the purpose of gathering, mentioned that the Forestry Commission seeks to build a solid alliance with IUFRO because it will be a great platform to exchange ideas and come up with impactful projects.
Mr. Nyadia Sulemana Nelson, the Deputy Chief Executive in addressing the stakeholders mentioned that the Chief Executive, Mr. John Allotey, wished to have attended the programme in person because he values such alliances . To him, such collaborations will help the future of the Commission. He also commended IUFRO for the role they play in the global forest agenda. Mr. Nelson said the Commission is very concerned about the sustainable management of forests and sustainable livelihood of fringed communities.
“The visit is an opportunity to share ideas because we are encountering new challenges in the forestry frontiers but importantly, we are also making achievements. The challenges are huge and the professionals could not have imagined the enormity of the challenges faced today, ten years back”, he said.
He emphasised that the dialogue is an opportunity to recognise the work IUFRO does globally. He believed the discussions held will have positive effects on issues bothering the work FC does. He mentioned that FC will soon join IUFRO as a corporate member.
Dr. Joseph Appiah- Gyapong,Manager for the Donor Relations & Projects Unit, gave an insightful presentation on the mandate of the Forestry Commission; the vision and mission and the various divisions and centres within the Commission. He also touched on programmes being implemented, key achievements, ongoing projects and FC’s participation in IUFRO activities and operational challenges.
Dr John A. Parrotta, President of IUFRO, gave a presentation on the vision and mission of IUFRO; the structure of the organization; and some collaborative activities with some selected institutions in Ghana.
The programme was climaxed with a plenary session of interactions where members from both parties made suggestions and contributions.
