The Forestry Commission (FC) has reinforced its leadership in sustainable forest governance with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Governments of Ghana and the United Kingdom.

The Agreement marks a significant milestone in deepening collaboration on forest legality, climate resilience, and responsible forest management, reaffirming the Commission’s central role in driving reforms that protect forest resources while promoting sustainable trade and livelihoods.

The event brought together the leadership of the Forestry Commission, representatives of the UK Government, actors from the private sector, civil society organisations, and development partners, underscoring the shared commitment of both countries to protecting forest resources and promoting responsible forest-based trade.

Delivering the welcome statement, Dr Hugh C.A. Brown, Chief Executive of FC, underscored the long-standing partnership between Ghana and the United Kingdom, which spans more than two decades of collaboration in forest law enforcement, governance, and trade.

He noted that sustained UK support, particularly in systems development, policy and legal reforms, and engagement with the private sector and civil society, had been instrumental in Ghana becoming the first country in Africa and the second globally to issue Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licences for timber exports to the European Union.

Dr Brown highlighted the critical role of forests in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, water protection, and livelihoods, while acknowledging the growing threats posed by illegal mining and forest degradation.

He therefore welcomed the renewed UK support under the MoU, aimed at strengthening governance and enforcement and advancing sustainable financing mechanisms, including the exploration of payments for ecosystem services.

The Managing Director of Samartex Company Limited, Dr. Richard Dua Nsenkyire who is also a member of the FC Board expressed appreciation to FC and the UK Government for their sustained collaboration with the timber industry.

He underscored the importance of UK’s technical and financial support in the introduction and rollout of the electronic timber tracking and verification systems, which have enhanced transparency and enabled Ghanaian timber to meet international market standards.

He described the issuance of FLEGT licences as a major milestone for the industry and expressed optimism that the MoU would expand market access, including into the UK market, while reaffirming the private sector’s commitment to responsible and sustainable forestry practices.

Mr. Mustapha Seidu. Esq., Director Nature & Development Foundation, in his statement commended FC and the UK Government for their continued support to both industry and civil society. He highlighted the importance of capacity building for industry compliance, independent monitoring, and community engagement. Particular appreciation was expressed to the UK for their support, which enables the civil society to play an oversight role in forest governance and strengthen community participation in forest management. Mr. Seidu also noted that the MoU provides a strong foundation for continued collaboration and accountability.

To end the round of statements, His Excellency (H.E.) Christian Rogg, British High Commissioner to Ghana, described the signing of the MoU as a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between the United Kingdom and Ghana. He noted that the Agreement builds on more than a decade of cooperation and reflects a shared commitment to protecting forests for biodiversity, livelihoods, and global climate objectives. The High Commissioner congratulated Ghana on its leadership in achieving the FLEGT licensing milestone and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the Voluntary Partnership Agreement process, as well as to expanding market recognition for Ghanaian timber. He also acknowledged the growing threats posed by illegal mining and forest degradation and assured stakeholders of the UK’s unwavering support to strengthen governance, enforcement, and community-centred forest management.

A formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding followed, with Dr Hugh C.A. Brown signing on behalf of the Government of Ghana and H.E. Christian Rogg on behalf of the United Kingdom.

The signing marked the beginning of a new phase of collaboration aimed at delivering healthier forests, stronger institutions, and sustainable livelihoods.

The ceremony culminated with closing remarks from the Chairman of the FC Board, Mr. Isaac Essien, Esq. He reflected on the historical relationship between Ghana and the United Kingdom in the development of the forestry sector, including institutional and legislative foundations laid over several decades. He emphasised that the current partnership comes at a critical time of policy reform and renewed commitment to sustainable forest management.

He expressed gratitude to the UK Government for its continued support and reaffirmed the Forestry Commission’s resolve to uphold high standards in implementing the objectives of the MoU for the benefit of present and future generations.