The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has inaugurated a nine-member National Timber Monitoring Team as part of renewed efforts to combat illegal logging across the country.
He described Ghana’s forests as a critical national asset that continues to come under serious threat from illegal chainsaw operations and unauthorised timber harvesting.
The Minister said the team has been tasked to monitor timber harvesting, transportation, and trade, and to work closely with the Forestry Commission, security agencies, and local authorities to enforce forestry laws.
Hon. Buah explained that forest protection cannot be handled by one institution alone and called for collective responsibility from government agencies, traditional authorities, communities, and the private sector.
“Forest protection is a shared responsibility, and this team must serve as the eyes and ears of the nation. Officers must not be compromised in the discharge of their duties,” he emphasised.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr Hugh Brown, mentioned that the fight against illegal logging has been ongoing for decades.
He revealed that in recent years, some forest officers were kidnapped by illegal chainsaw operators and were only released after seized trucks were returned.
Dr Brown described the situation as alarming and expressed optimism that the new monitoring team would strengthen existing efforts.
The Chairman of the National Timber Monitoring Team, Alhaji Mohammed Kwaku Doku, expressed gratitude to the Minister and the Forestry Commission for the confidence reposed in the team.
He noted that members are aware of the risks involved but are committed to supporting the fight against illegal logging. According to him, the team will focus on closing monitoring gaps, improving intelligence gathering, and strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders.
“The task ahead is difficult, but we are determined to deliver on our mandate,” Alhaji Doku said.
He called for public support and urged communities to reject illegal activities that destroy forest resources.
