Timber Industry Applauds President Mahama's Appointment of New Forestry Commission CEO

Stakeholders in Ghana’s timber industry have widely welcomed President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Forestry Commission. Dr. Brown, a seasoned professional forester, previously served as the Executive Director of the Forest Services Division (FSD) and is known for his extensive experience and expertise in forestry management. His appointment has sparked optimism among industry players, who believe his leadership will foster growth in both the timber sector and the Forestry Commission.

Industry stakeholders have expressed confidence in Dr. Brown’s ability to lead the Forestry Commission effectively, citing his vast knowledge of forest protection, sustainable timber production, and eco-tourism. Timber merchants from various regions, including Ashanti, Western, Western North, and Ahafo, are particularly hopeful that Dr. Brown’s leadership will contribute significantly to the national economy by boosting the timber industry. The merchants believe his appointment is a critical step toward improving forest management and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector.

One timber merchant, Nana Adu Bonsra, shared his thoughts with the press in Kumasi, Ashanti Region. He expressed that Dr. Brown’s appointment reflects President Mahama’s genuine commitment to the development of the forestry sector. According to Bonsra, the decision demonstrates the president’s thoughtful and informed approach in selecting a leader who understands the intricacies of the timber industry. The Forestry Commission is tasked with overseeing Ghana’s forests, ensuring responsible management, and promoting eco-tourism and sustainable timber harvesting. Stakeholders believe Dr. Brown’s expertise will enable the Commission to implement policies that achieve these objectives.

As the industry anticipates a more prosperous future, timber merchants have voiced their full support for Dr. Brown and the Forestry Commission. They have also expressed the hope that his leadership will address critical challenges facing the sector, such as the illegal activities of miners and chainsaw operators, which continue to damage forest resources. The merchants have pledged to collaborate with Dr. Brown to foster growth, create employment, and contribute to the economic development of the country.

Praise from the Ghana Timber Association

Mr. Alex Dadzie, the President of the Ghana Timber Association, also lauded the president’s decision to appoint Dr. Brown. He described the appointment as a significant move toward improving forest management and strengthening the timber industry. Mr. Dadzie pointed out that one of the key issues hindering effective forest management in the past has been the politicization of the Forestry Commission, which allowed illegal loggers and miners to invade protected forest reserves. However, he expressed confidence that with Dr. Brown at the helm, there would be renewed focus on curbing such activities. Dadzie believes that Dr. Brown’s integrity and experience in the forestry sector will inspire other Commission officials to act decisively against illegal logging and mining.

Form Ghana’s Support

Form Ghana, a reforestation company that develops timber plantations in the Ashanti and Bono regions, has also expressed support for Dr. Brown’s appointment. Williem Fourie, the CEO of Form Ghana, acknowledged that the forestry sector is complex and that Dr. Brown’s new role will be challenging. Nevertheless, he believes Dr. Brown’s passion for and knowledge of the industry will be instrumental in achieving the vision of the Forestry Commission. Fourie also stated that Dr. Brown’s leadership could help attract investment and stimulate growth in the sector, create jobs, and boost local rural economies.

Forest Plantation Timber Exporters and Loggers Association’s Perspective

The Forest Plantation Timber Exporters and Loggers Association also endorsed the appointment, emphasizing the importance of appointing someone with deep roots in the sector. Mr. Kofi Asante, the president of the association, highlighted that Dr. Brown’s long-standing involvement in the forestry industry would enable him to deliver on the sector’s needs. He expressed optimism that Dr. Brown would fulfill the expectations of the timber industry and contribute to its future success.

About Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown

Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown brings over 30 years of experience in tropical forest management, protection, and development to his new role as CEO of the Forestry Commission. He holds a Ph.D. in Sustainable Use of Renewable Natural Resources from the University of Helsinki, Finland. Dr. Brown’s career began as a District Manager at Bekwai, Kade, and Offinso, and he later became Operations Manager in the Plantations Department of the Forest Services Division. His career progressed as he served as the Director of Plantations at the Forest Services Division and eventually as the Executive Director of the Division.

Dr. Brown’s extensive expertise in forest management, combined with his passion for sustainable practices, positions him as a strong leader for the Forestry Commission. With his appointment, industry stakeholders are hopeful that the sector will continue to thrive, ensuring both environmental protection and economic growth for Ghana.