Ghana marks international day of forests with focus on economic value
Ghana will join the rest of the world on March 21 to commemorate the International Day of Forests, with authorities highlighting the critical role forests play in driving economic growth and sustaining livelihoods.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, announced a series of activities to mark the day under the global theme “Forests and Economies.” The theme underscores the importance of forests in supporting jobs, industries, and national development while maintaining environmental sustainability.
The International Day of Forests was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 to raise awareness about the value of forests and trees worldwide.
In a press release issued in Accra, the Forestry Commission emphasized that forests remain a key pillar of Ghana’s economy, providing timber and non-timber products, supporting ecotourism, and delivering essential ecosystem services such as climate regulation and water protection. Millions of Ghanaians depend on forest resources for food, medicine, shelter, and energy.
To commemorate the occasion, a range of activities has been planned, with a strong focus on youth engagement and public education.
A debate competition between the University of Ghana and the University of Professional Studies, Accra, is scheduled for March 18 at the Forestry Commission Auditorium. The event is expected to encourage students to examine the relationship between forests, development, and economic sustainability.
On March 19, a grand durbar will take place at the Achimota Forest Reserve, bringing together traditional leaders, government officials, students, and industry players. The event will also feature the official launch of the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative (T4L) 2026 by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who is also Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.
A live studio discussion will air on JoyNews on March 20, focusing on the forestry sector’s contribution to Ghana’s socio-economic development. The discussion will include experts, academics, and industry stakeholders, alongside nationwide media campaigns to promote forest conservation.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), forests contribute more than $1.5 trillion annually to the global economy and provide employment for millions, highlighting the need for sustainable management and investment.
The Forestry Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghana’s forest resources through restoration efforts, enforcement against illegal activities, and partnerships with communities and the private sector.
“Forest protection is not only an environmental responsibility but an economic imperative,” the Commission stressed.
As part of the celebration, the Commission is urging the public to plant trees, use forest resources responsibly, and actively support conservation efforts to safeguard the country’s forest heritage for future generations.
