By: Sarah Baafi
A delegation from the World Bank Ghana, led by Country Director Robert Taliercio O’Brien, met with Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, on March 24, 2025, in Accra. The meeting focused on potential investments aimed at revitalizing Ghana’s forestry sector.
Receiving the four-member team, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah expressed the government’s readiness to continue its partnership with the World Bank to pursue further investments in the forest economy.
This initiative is designed to create jobs, particularly for young people, who are crucial to the country’s economic growth.
Despite the challenges posed by Ghana’s devastated forest reserves, the government is committed to collaborating with the World Bank to embark on reafforestation efforts. Key initiatives include the government’s flagship “Tree For Life” program, training of the Blue Water Guards, engagement with Parliamentarians on restoring degraded lands, and protecting the nation’s forest cover.
Mr. Buah also highlighted the government’s transformative policies and structures aimed at improving the forestry sub-sector. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance sustainable forest management practices and promote environmental conservation.
On his part, Mr. O’Brien reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s forest economy for sustainable growth. The bank plans to focus on projects addressing agroforestry issues, restoring depleted forest covers, and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
The partnership between Ghana and the World Bank is expected to yield significant benefits, including job creation, improved livelihoods, and the promotion of sustainable forest management practices. This initiative also forms part of Ghana’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
By working together, both parties aim to leverage the potential of Ghana’s forestry sector to drive economic development while ensuring environmental sustainability.
