Ghana is set to make history as the first country in Africa to issue a Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) License by June 30, 2025.
The move will position Ghana as a global leader in sustainable forest governance and make it the second country worldwide to achieve this milestone, following Indonesia.
The announcement was made by Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, during a courtesy meeting with the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Irchad Razaaly.
“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.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
He underscored the FLEGT License as a critical step in enhancing Ghana’s global standing in forest governance and trade.
Hon. Buah emphasized Ghana’s substantial progress in implementing the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA), which was ratified by Parliament in 2009.
The VPA is a pivotal component of Ghana’s efforts to promote responsible and sustainable timber trade while preserving natural resources.
The EU continues to play a critical role in Ghana’s external trade, accounting for approximately 14% of trade volumes in 2022.
The collaboration between Ghana and the EU in forestry development and governance has been instrumental in advancing national sustainability goals.
Hon. Buah expressed appreciation for the EU’s support, describing the partnership as foundational to Ghana’s success in the natural resources sector.
“We are deeply grateful to the EU for its continued support, which has helped Ghana take bold steps toward effective forest governance and sustainable development.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
The FLEGT license stems from a rigorous reform process anchored in the Ghana Legality Assurance System (GhLAS) and supported by the Wood Tracking System (WTS), which ensures traceability and verification of legal timber.
These tools, supported by EU funding and technical assistance, have become central pillars of Ghana’s forest governance framework.
Minister Buah called for increased investment in logistics, capacity building, and technology to strengthen these systems further and ensure their continued effectiveness and scalability.
“We need sustained support in deploying the full potential of our Wood Tracking System and GhLAS.
“These are not just bureaucratic tools but fundamental to building trust in Ghana’s timber products and ensuring long-term forest sustainability.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Ghana, EU Partnership
During the meeting, Ambassador Irchad Razaaly praised Ghana for its leadership in sustainable forestry and reiterated the EU’s commitment to deepening cooperation.
“Ghana is a model of progress in forest governance, and the upcoming FLEGT license is evidence of that leadership.
“The EU will continue to support Ghana in achieving its sustainability goals across forestry, climate, and biodiversity sectors.”
H.E. Irchad Razaaly, European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana
As Ghana approaches the FLEGT licensing milestone, it underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global environmental challenges.
The country’s leadership in legal and sustainable timber trade sets an example for others in the region, while also offering real economic benefits through enhanced market access and investor confidence.
Hon. Buah concluded by reaffirming Ghana’s dedication to sustainable development and international partnerships.
“We are committed to not only protecting our forests but using them as a pathway for economic transformation.
“With the EU by our side, we are confident in building a greener, more resilient future.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
As the June deadline nears, Ghana’s forestry sector prepares for a turning point—one that blends legality, environmental stewardship, and international cooperation into a single license with global significance.
The milestone underscores Ghana’s dedication to environmental stewardship, economic growth, and global leadership in forest governance.
With continued support from the EU and other stakeholders, Ghana’s efforts are poised to yield significant benefits for its people, economy, and natural heritage.
