The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has outlined the country’s decisive steps to stop forest loss and restore damaged ecosystems, focusing on safeguarding its remaining tree cover.
Speaking at the 21st Session of the United Nations (UN) Forum on Forests at UN Headquarters in New York, he explained how Ghana was rolling out multiple programmes to tackle the challenge.
These include the Ghana Forest Plantation Strategy, the Forest Investment Programme, the Ghana REDD+ Strategy, and the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme.
Turning to mining and forestry, the Minister stressed that the administration was intensifying action against illegal mining, locally called “galamsey,” to shield forests and waterways, calling the effort vital for the nation’s future.
He also reiterated Ghana’s resolve to balance mining with sustainable forest care, aiming to rehabilitate degraded areas and advance a cleaner environment.
“…In August 2025, Ghana issued its first FLEGT licence, becoming the first country in Africa and second only to Indonesia globally. That means every timber product we now ship to Europe carries verified proof of legality and sustainability in the region,” he said.
