The Internal Audit Department has recently held its 2025 Performance Review to evaluate how it helps the Forestry Commission (FC) maintain good governance and accountability. Under the theme “Driving Strategic Success: A Well-Resourced Internal Audit Function,” the program highlighted how a well-equipped audit team strengthens risk management and transparency across the organisation.
The Director of Internal Audit, Rev. Carl Ahadzi (PhD), emphasised that the work of the Audit Directorate is critically important to strengthening governance, accountability, and institutional performance. According to him, effective internal audit goes beyond compliance, it supports risk management, improves operational efficiency, and enhances transparency in revenue mobilisation, contract management, and public financial oversight. Strong internal controls, continuous training, data-driven decision-making, and professional excellence are essential to delivering high-quality audit outcomes. “Through collaboration, structured dialogue, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we can standardise our approach, strengthen our coordination, and build a culture of accountability and professionalism that supports sustainable development and effective forest governance”, he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive (CE) , Dr. Hugh Brown, the Deputy CE, Mr. Elikem Kotoko, praised the Directorate for safeguarding public resources. He urged the team to continue using “risk-based” approaches to focus on the most important areas of the business. He assured the staff that Management is committed to supporting the Directorate as they work to turn audit findings into real improvements for the Commission.
Mr. Wilson Owusu-Asare, a Retired Forester and Land Acquisition Manager at Rainforest Builder Ghana Limited, gave a presentation on forest operational risks. He explained that auditors must look closely at the entire forestry value chain from verifying harvesting schedules and tree measurements (TIFs), calculating “stumpage fees” to prevent money from being lost. He also highlighted the importance of checking environmental safety and ensuring that local communities receive their fair share of benefits through Social Responsibility Agreements.
Abdul Nasir Abubakar (PhD), the Acting Director of Human Resources, spoke about performance and succession planning. He revealed that FC is developing a formal Succession Plan Policy to prepare high-performing staff for future leadership roles. This includes a mix of academic programs, mentoring, and job rotations to ensure the Commission always has strong leaders ready to step up.
Mr. Seth Anaglate from the Internal Audit Agency explained the importance of Working Papers management. He described them as the essential link between fieldwork and the Auditor’s final report, noting they must be clear, dated, and signed to prove an audit was done correctly.
Mr. Kofi Oduro Boateng, Finance Manager for the Forest Services Division (FSD), discussed the relationship between Finance and Audit. He acknowledged challenges like “communication gaps,” and called for closer collaboration to reduce financial errors and build stakeholder confidence.
The 2025 Performance Review concluded with a shared commitment to move beyond “fault-finding” and work together to ensure the Forestry Commission remains a transparent and sustainable institution.
