The government of Ghana is considering an option to commercialize the Forestry Commission to raise revenue.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Honourable Armah Kofi Buah made the disclosure at a meeting with the Forestry Commission staff members on Wednesday April 9, 2025.
The Minister underscored the need for the Forestry Commission staff members to have a decent renumeration which he believes would encourage hardwork.
According to him, the commercialising the Forestry Commission will ensure that revenue be raised to properly renumerate staff members.
The Minister indicated that the work of Forestry Commission is at the heart of what Ghana is.
He noted the signifcance of the Commission having been given the responsibility to regulate the utilisation of Ghana’s forest.
He reiterated calls for Ghana’s forests to be protected by the Forestry Commission without which there will not be any Ghana.
The sector minister indicated the digitalisation of the Forestry Commission
Urging the gathering of the need to recognise the relevance of their work, the Minister disclosed that the Commission is as old as Ghana.
The Minister indicated that he wake up each morning cautioning himself of the fact that he is the MP of Kwame Nkrumah if he were alive.
Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, challenged the Forestry Commission to transform its operational model and become more commercially focused.
Speaking passionately about the organization’s critical role in protecting Ghana’s natural resources, the Minister emphasized the need to move beyond traditional approaches.
”Under the reset agenda, the Forestry Commission must start thinking business,” Buah declared, highlighting the importance of generating revenue while preserving the country’s forests and wildlife.
He stressed the organization’s historical significance, noting its existence since 1909, and called on employees to honor the legacy of past leaders.
The Minister outlined several key priorities, including protecting forests from threats like illegal mining and logging, improving employee compensation, and creating a more attractive workplace for young professionals.
He also promised government support for legislative initiatives and financial strategies to strengthen the Forestry Commission.
President John Mahama’s administration is committed to supporting the commission’s transformation, with a focus on integrity, hard work, and sustainable resource management.
The goal is to ensure that Ghana’s natural resources remain intact for future generations.
The visit signaled a new strategic direction for the Forestry Commission, positioning it as a dynamic, business-oriented organization dedicated to environmental conservation and economic development.
