Stakeholders in the timber industry have welcomed President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown as the new Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, describing it as a step towards sustainable forestry management and industry growth.
Dr. Brown, a seasoned professional forester, previously served as the Executive Director of the Forest Services Division (FSD).
His vast experience and expertise in forestry management, stakeholders say, will help steer the industry and the commission in the right direction.
Timber merchants from the Ashanti, Western, Western North, and Ahafo regions have expressed optimism about Dr. Brown’s leadership, believing that his appointment will not only revitalize the industry but also contribute to Ghana’s economic development.
Speaking to the media in Kumasi, Nana Adu Bonsra, a timber merchant, commended President Mahama for making an informed decision.
“Dr. Brown’s appointment is a testament to the President’s commitment to the forestry sector’s development. We are grateful for this strategic choice,” he stated.
The merchants also urged the new CEO to take decisive action against illegal miners and chainsaw operators, who continue to degrade the country’s forest reserves.
The Ghana Timber Association (GTA) has also praised the appointment, describing it as one of the best decisions for improving forest management and the timber industry.
GTA President, Mr. Alex Dadzie, highlighted how past political interference had enabled illegal logging and mining in forest reserves. He believes that Dr. Brown’s leadership will inspire Forestry Commission officials to intensify efforts against such activities.
“The President has made the best decision for the industry. Dr. Brown is a law-abiding professional, and I am confident he will deliver. He will not disappoint the President or the Forestry Commission staff,” he said.
Reforestation and Export Groups Endorse Dr. Brown
Form Ghana, a reforestation company developing timber plantations in the Ashanti and Bono regions, has also commended the appointment.
Its CEO, Willem Fourie, acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Dr. Brown’s ability to navigate them successfully.
“The forestry sector is complex, but with his passion and expertise, Dr. Brown can drive the commission’s vision forward. His leadership will boost investor confidence, create jobs, and stimulate rural economies,” Fourie stated.
The Forest Plantation Timber Exporters and Loggers Association also lauded the decision, emphasizing that appointing an industry insider will drive meaningful reforms.
Association President Mr. Kofi Asante stressed that Dr. Brown’s experience in the forestry sector puts him in an ideal position to deliver on expectations.
Who is Dr. Hugh Brown?
Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown is a forestry expert with over 30 years of experience in tropical forest management, conservation, and development.
He holds a Ph.D. in Sustainable Use of Renewable Natural Resources from the University of Helsinki, Finland and has extensive experience in planning, implementing, and coordinating forestry projects.
Dr. Brown’s career at the Forestry Commission spans several key positions, including:
District Manager – Bekwai, Kade, and Offinso
Operations Manager – Plantations Department, Forest Services Division
Director, Plantations – Forest Services Division
Executive Director – Forest Services Division
His contributions to forestry management have earned him multiple accolades, including the 2020 Yale Prospect Street Award for Environmental Leadership from Yale University.
Expectations for the Future
With Dr. Brown at the helm, industry stakeholders anticipate robust policies for sustainable timber production, enhanced forest conservation, and eco-tourism development.
As Ghana seeks to strengthen its forestry sector, timber merchants, reforestation companies, and industry associations have pledged their support, confident that Dr. Brown’s leadership will drive sectoral growth and contribute to Ghana’s economic transformation.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Isaac Justice Bediako
