Stakeholders in the timber industry are celebrating President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown as the new CEO of the Forestry Commission.
Dr. Hugh Brown, a professional forester, previously served as the Executive Director of the Forest Services Division (FSD).
Industry stakeholders have praised Dr. Brown’s expertise and experience in forestry management, expressing confidence that his appointment will steer the timber industry and the Forestry Commission in the right direction.
Timber merchants from the Ashanti, Western, Western North, and Ahafo regions are optimistic that the new Chief Executive’s leadership will not only boost the industry but also contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Nana Adu Bonsra, a timber merchant speaking to the press in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, stated that Dr. Brown’s appointment demonstrates President Mahama’s commitment to the development of the forestry sector. He expressed gratitude to the president for making what he described as a ‘thoughtful and informed’ decision.
The Forestry Commission is tasked with managing Ghana’s forests, ensuring sustainable timber production, and promoting eco-tourism. Industry players expect Dr. Hugh Brown to implement effective policies and strategies to achieve these goals.
As the timber industry anticipates a brighter future under Dr. Hugh Brown’s leadership, merchants have pledged their support for the new CEO and the Forestry Commission. They are confident that together, they can drive growth, create jobs, and contribute to Ghana’s economic development.
They have also appealed to the new CEO to help protect forest reserves from illegal miners and illegal chainsaw operators who have been degrading forest resources.
Ghana Timber Association
The President of the Ghana Timber Association, Mr. Alex Dadzie, has described Dr. Brown’s appointment as an excellent decision that will enhance forest management and the timber industry.
Mr. Dadzie noted that politicization of the Forestry Commission had contributed to illegal logging and mining in forest reserves. He expressed strong confidence that this appointment would boost the morale of forestry officials to tackle these issues.
“The President has done the best for the industry, and I am very sure Dr. Brown is a law-abiding gentleman who will deliver. He will not disappoint the President and the staff because he is a forester,” he stated.
Statement from Form Ghana
Form Ghana, a reforestation company developing timber plantations in the Ashanti and Bono regions, has issued a statement praising the president’s decision to appoint Dr. Hugh Brown as Chief Executive.
The CEO of Form Ghana Limited, Williem Fourie, acknowledged the complexity of the forestry sector but expressed confidence that Dr. Brown’s passion and knowledge would help achieve the Forestry Commission’s vision.
“His leadership will have a positive impact on investor confidence, which can grow the sector, create employment, and develop local rural economies,” Mr. Fourie stated.
Forest Plantation Timber Exporters and Loggers Association
The Forest Plantation Timber Exporters and Loggers Association believes that appointing someone from the sector to lead is essential for its growth and sees this development as a step toward a brighter future.
The president of the association, Mr. Kofi Asante, emphasized that Dr. Brown has been an integral part of the industry and is well-positioned to meet expectations in his new role.
About Dr. Hugh Brown
Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown is a professional forester with over 30 years of experience in tropical forest management, protection, and development.
He holds a Ph.D. in Sustainable Use of Renewable Natural Resources from the University of Helsinki, Finland.
Dr. Brown began his career as a District Manager at Bekwai, Kade, and Offinso. He later served as the Operations Manager of the Plantations Department at the Forest Services Division. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to become the Director of Plantations at the Forest Services Division and eventually the Executive Director of the Forest Services Division.
Industry stakeholders believe his vast experience will bring about transformative policies that will strengthen the sector and ensure sustainable forestry management in Ghana.
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