Members of the newly inaugurated third Timber Validation Committee (TVC) have undergone a comprehensive two-day orientation. This exercise, held in the Western Region, sought to equip the Committee with firsthand insights into the full spectrum of Ghana’s timber legality system, from forest operations to export protocols.
The TVC, established under L.I. 2254 (Regulation 32), is mandated to oversee the verification and validation of timber license applications, ensure compliance with Ghana’s timber legality framework, and facilitate the resolution of industry-related complaints. The committee plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Ghana Timber Legality Assurance System (GhLAS), supervising timber licensing for both domestic and international markets, and making key recommendations towards the issuance of FLEGT licenses for timber exports to the European Union, thereby promoting transparency, legality, and sustainability within Ghana’s timber sector.
The orientation began at the Subri Forest Reserve, a key timber production area. The Committee was introduced to forest inventory techniques and sustainable harvesting practices by Nana Poku Bosompim, Western Regional Manager of the Forest Services Division (FSD). He explained the Reserve’s compartmentalised mapping system and criteria for tree selection, noting that only trees with a minimum diameter of 50 cm are included in stock surveys for the Ghana Wood Tracking System (GWTS). He also stressed the importance of accurate species cataloguing, traceability, and compliance with the mandatory 5% Social Responsibility Agreement (SRA) between timber companies and local communities before any harvesting begins.
Later, the delegation visited the Takoradi Port, where timber is prepared for export. Mr. Ferhat Akkaya, General Manager of Yilport ATSL-Takoradi, explained the Port’s role in logistics, clarifying that legal clearances are managed by Ghana Customs and the Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD). A Customs Officer, Mr. Yaw Sedro, gave an overview of the export inspection process, highlighting that all timber shipments are jointly vetted by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ghana Ministry of National Security, and the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI). Once cleared, containers are sealed and handed to shipping lines, ensuring only legally sourced timber is exported.
On the second day, the orientation took place at the Western Serene Atlantic Hotel in Takoradi. Hon. Fiifi Buckman, Chairman of the TVC opened the session by reflecting on the previous day’s fieldwork. Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown, Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, provided an overview of the Commission’s mandate and structure, which includes the FSD, Wildlife Division, and TIDD. Participants received a series of technical briefings on how each Division supports the Ghana Timber Legality Assurance System (GhLAS), reinforcing the legal and scientific foundations of sustainable forestry in Ghana.
Experts from the Forestry Commission highlighted the operational roles of their respective divisions. Dr. Gordon Kofi Sarfo-Adu, Ag. Executive Director, FSD, explained how timber harvesting is regulated through sustainable yield plans. Similarly, Mr. Yaw Atuahene Nyako, Director of the Resource Management Support Centre, detailed the scientific basis for the 40-year timber harvesting cycle per compartment.
Dr. Richard Gyimah, Ag. Director of TIDD, also took his turn to discuss the Division’s role in timber inspection, grading, and issuance of export licenses and FLEGT certificates, emphasising their oversight from transportation to trade. Dr. Frank Ankomah, Verification Manager, Timber Validation Department (TVD) outlined the Department’s auditing and inspection functions, particularly its response to system red flags. Dr. Godfred Bempah of the Wildlife Division, addressed issues on Convention for International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) compliance for restricted species in timber exports.
The day concluded with a presentation by Mr. Clement Kojo Akapame Esq. of Taylor Crabbe, Legal Consultant for FLEGT, who led a practical session on managing industry complaints, reinforcing the TVC’s role under Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2254. Participants then toured a local sawmill to observe firsthand the process of converting raw logs into finished timber products.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Fiifi Buckman expressed gratitude to facilitators and reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to safeguarding forest resources. He stated that the orientation impacted the TVC, leaving the members well-resourced for duty.