Ghana to Pioneer FLEGT License in Africa by June 30 - Lands Minister

Accra, Ghana - 26 April, 2025 - Ghana is poised to make history as the first African country to issue a Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) License, a significant milestone in sustainable forest governance. according tp the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.

During a meeting with the European Union Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, Kofi Buah announced that Ghana is on track to achieve this feat by June 30, 2025.

“All is set for the issuance of Ghana’s first FLEGT License. The only outstanding task is the ratification of a second batch of Timber Utilization Contracts (TUCs), which we expect Parliament to address after the Easter break,” he stated.

The FLEGT License is a testament to Ghana's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the European Union, particularly in sustainable forest management.

The Minister highlighted the substantial progress made in implementing the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) ratified by Parliament in 2009. With the issuance of the FLEGT License, Ghana will join the ranks of countries that have demonstrated excellence in forest governance.

The Minister called for enhanced EU collaboration in crucial sectors, such as logistics, capacity building, and technology, to facilitate the implementation of the Wood Tracking System and Ghana Legality Assurance System.

Additionally, he requested support for large-scale plantation development, land restoration, and water body rehabilitation.

The EU has been a critical partner in Ghana's external trade, accounting for approximately 14% of trade volumes in 2022.

The Minister appreciated the EU's sustained backing for Ghana's natural resources and environmental sector, expecting an even stronger collaboration ahead.

Source: Lead News Online