Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has highlighted Ghana’s efforts to halt deforestation and reverse environmental degradation through initiatives aimed at protecting Ghana’s forest cover.
Delivering a major address at the 21st Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, he detailed Ghana’s implementation of several strategies, including the Ghana Forest Plantation Strategy, the Forest Investment Programme, the Ghana REDD+ Strategy, and the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme.
Addressing the intersection of mining and forestry, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” to protect forests and water bodies, describing the fight as a matter of national survival.
He further reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to sustainable mining and forest management, intending to restore degraded lands and promote a greener 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.
