The Forestry Commission (FC) has launched the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Timber Licensing as the first country in Africa to do so. Only second to Indonesia in the world, the issuance of this license marks a milestone for Ghana in sustainable forest governance and the legal timber trade.
A FLEGT license is issued by a country that has entered into a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU), to certify that timber and timber-related products exported to the EU are legally harvested and processed in accordance with national laws.
In attendance were the Acting (Ag.) Chief Justice of Ghana, His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, some traditional leaders, members of the FC board, representatives from the Ministry of lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), some past Chief executives, retired directors and staff of the Forestry Commission. Also present were representatives from the Civil Society, and the EU, as well as stakeholders from the timber industry.
Dr. Hugh Brown, Ag. Chief Executive, FC, in his opening statement, described the launch of Ghana’s FLEGT License as a historic milestone, marking 16 years of reform and collaboration since the signing of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the EU in 2009. He highlighted the development of the Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS), which ensures the legality and traceability of timber from forest to market. According to him, this system has improved accountability, enabled data-driven decision-making, and promoted inclusive governance involving all key stakeholders.
He emphasised that the FLEGT license enhances Ghana’s credibility in international timber markets, particularly within the EU, by assuring the legality and sustainability of its timber products. Dr. Brown acknowledged the collective contributions of past and present leadership of FC, the Timber Validation Department, Parliament, the MLNR, and stakeholders across sectors. He noted that while this achievement is significant, it also marks a new phase, focused on deepening stakeholder engagement, strengthening enforcement, and aligning with global efforts on climate change and deforestation.
Odeefuo Amoakwa Buadu VIII, Omanhene of the Breman Asikuma Traditional Area and President of the Central Regional House of Chiefs chaired the event on behalf the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II, Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso. In his remarks, he said he deemed it an honour to chair the event and expressed appreciation to the FC for the invitation to do so. “Today’s achievement which we celebrate, has been through persistent hard work and vision”, he said and extended gratitude to all partners who have contributed to bring this milestone to fruition. By quoting the famous adage that when the last tree dies, last man also dies, Odeefuo underscored the crucial roles of tress especially when managed sustainably. He concluded by tasking all present to be advocates of the conservation of Ghana’s forests to enhance biodiversity and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Chief Director, Mr. Innocent Haligah , described the FLEGT License as a major step toward the sustainable management of Ghana’s forest reserves. He credited the achievement to the joint efforts of state and non-state actors, including civil society organizations, for their continued advocacy and oversight. He noted that the license presents an opportunity to grow Ghana’s timber market while ensuring responsible forest practices. Finally, he issued a warning to illegal miners to vacate forest areas or face severe legal consequences.
Representing the European Union Delegation to Ghana, the Deputy Head of Delegation, Mr. Jonas Claes , praised Ghana’s commitment and leadership. He stated that the move reinforces Ghana’s role in legal timber trade, improved forest governance, and the fight against illegal logging. Mr. Claes reiterated that FLEGT combines environmental and economic benefits and reaffirmed the EU’s ongoing support, including the procurement of IT equipment for the FC.
A ceremonial presentation of the first six issued FLEGT licenses were presented to five Ghanaian companies namely; Samartex Company Limited; Logs & Lumber Limited; JCM John Bitar Company Limited ; West Coast Wooden Products Limited and Miro Plantations. This was facilitated by Dr. Richard Gyimah, Ag. Executive Director of the Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD) with Samartex Company Limited receiving two licenses for timber and timber products respectively.
The event concluded with photo sessions to memorialise the historic event of Ghana’s leadership in promoting legal and sustainable timber trade on the African continent and globally.
