The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah has called for the recognition of forests as an anchor to national development at the launch of the 2026 edition of the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative (T4L).
Held at the Accra Zoo, located within the Achimota Forest Reserve, the Minister in delivering the Keynote address underscored the urgency of restoring Ghana’s forests as both an environmental necessity and an economic strategy. He mentioned that the event jointly served as the commemoration of the International Day of Forests (IDF)2026 and the official launch of the second edition of T4L. Speaking in observance of IDF 2026, he highlighted the theme, “Forests and Economies” as a call to reposition forests as valuable, living assets capable of driving sustainable development. He noted that by investing in the bio-economy through sustainable timber production, non-timber forest products, ecotourism, and carbon markets, Ghana could unlock significant economic opportunities while safeguarding ecological integrity.
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, further emphasised that the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative represents a practical pathway toward the vision of transforming degraded lands into productive ecosystems that generate jobs, attract green investment, and support climate action. He reported that the 2025 edition exceeded its target,with over 30 million seedlings planted and about 41,000 green jobs created, describing it as a people-driven success. He also paid homage to fallen forestry officers and security personnel who lost their lives on the job, protecting Ghana’s forests and wildlife resources.
For 2026, he reiterated the target of planting another 30 million seedlings, stressing the need to nurture and protect trees from threats such as bushfires, illegal logging, and illegal mining(galamsey). He called on traditional authorities, the private sector, civil society, and citizens to deepen their commitment to forest conservation, positioning it as central to Ghana’s long-term economic resilience and environmental sustainability. He delivered his address accompanied by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Okaikwei North Constituency, Hon. Theresa Lardi Awuni.
Delivering her welcome address, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, highlighted the ecological significance of the Achimota Forest Reserve, describing it as a critical green asset that contributes to improved air quality, regulates urban temperatures and promotes the overall well-being of residents. She further outlined ongoing regional efforts to combat environmental degradation, noting the active involvement of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in tree planting initiatives. She declared, “We will work closely with the Department of Parks and Gardens and the Ministry of Transport to plant trees along road medians and ensure their maintenance.
Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown, Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission(FC), in his statement, highlighted the critical ecological and economic value of Ghana’s forests, noting their role as key sources of major rivers such as the Pra, Birim, Ankobra and Ayensu rivers. He emphasised that the forestry sector supports an estimated 800,000 jobs through activities including timber production, furniture making, bamboo and rattan processing, construction, ecotourism, and herbal medicine, underscoring its importance to both livelihoods and environmental sustainability.
However, he raised concerns over increasing deforestation driven by illegal mining(galamsey) and logging, and agricultural expansion, as well as the growing risks faced by frontline forestry personnel. Dr. Brown called for enhanced protection and resourcing of forest guards through measures such as tactical training, protective equipment and the establishment of forest protection camps. He also stressed the need for stronger public awareness and citizen engagement, describing an informed and active population as vital to combating illegal activities and safeguarding the nation’s forests.
In a brief Statement, Ms. Priya Gujadhur, Country Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), emphasised that this year’s theme for the IDF highlights the critical role forests play in driving economic growth, supporting livelihoods, and enhancing resilience. She commended Ghana’s strong leadership in sustainable forest management, particularly through the T4L, launched in 2025. She noted that it reflects a firm national commitment to restoring degraded landscapes while creating jobs and economic opportunities. She further emphasised FAO’s collaboration with national partners to strengthen sustainable wood value chains, improve efficiency, and generate decent employment, alongside ongoing support for non-timber forest products such as shea, honey, and medicinal plants to help communities diversify their income sources.
A solidarity message on behalf of the traditional authorities was delivered by a representative of the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty Kng Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, who reaffirmed their collective commitment to environmental protection and pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources and advance sustainable development.
The event brought together some high profile dignitaries such as Hon. Alhaji Yusif Sulemana; Deputy Minister, MLNR; Hon Christian Tetteh Badger, Municipal Chief Executive, Okaikwei North; Mr. Isaac Essien, Esq., Board Chairman, FC; Mr. Rich Kofi Kofituo , Deputy Chief Executive, Tree Crop Development Authority and Hon. Timothy Awontiirim; Deputy Chief Executive, FC. Also present were some members of the Parliamentary Select Committee for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), stakeholders from across the country, including heads of security services, religious leaders, civil society organisations, sector agencies, school children, the media, staff of the MLNR, as well as the FC.
The day concluded with a commemorative tree planting exercise to usher in another era focused on protecting, conserving and restoring Ghana’s forest cover.
