Forestry Commission urged to focus on ecotourism for better revenue generation
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has encouraged the Forestry Commission to consider ecotourism as a long-term strategy for boosting its revenue.
During a recent working visit to the Commission’s head office in Accra, the Minister called on management to broaden its focus beyond timber production. He pointed out that with proper planning and investment, Ghana’s forests could be transformed into eco-friendly tourism destinations that attract both local and international visitors.
He noted that countries in East Africa have successfully leveraged their natural reserves to develop thriving ecotourism industries, and Ghana has the potential to do the same. According to the Minister, partnering with private investors could help turn forest reserves into modern eco-parks while creating jobs and generating income.
Mr. Buah also urged the Commission to work with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to improve access routes to these forests, which he believes is key to growing visitor numbers.
He went further to propose that the Commission explore other ways of increasing value from timber resources, including venturing into furniture production and other finished wood products. This, he said, would help the country benefit more from its natural resources.
On environmental issues, the Minister addressed the problem of illegal mining, revealing that seven out of nine forest reserves that were taken over by illegal miners have been reclaimed. He assured the Commission that efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining two.
Regarding the Achimota Forest, Mr. Buah stressed the government’s commitment to protecting it and warned that anyone caught encroaching on the land would face consequences.
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the Forestry Commission and promised that his Ministry would put in place the necessary support systems to help the Commission perform its duties more effectively.
In response, the Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s visit. He assured him that the Commission remains committed to protecting the country’s forests and exploring new ways to add economic value to them.
By: Linda Akite
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