The Forestry Commission (FC) has acknowledged and celebrated the dedication and exceptional contributions of 15 staff members, presenting them with individual awards at the 2023 FC Chief Executive's End of Year Briefing and Staff Recognition Awards ceremony held in Takoradi.
During the ceremony, two former staff members received meritorious awards, and the Rapid Response Team at the Takoradi District Office of the FC was recognized for its crucial role in protecting the country's forest reserves.
Each awardee received a citation, GH₵3,000, a customized watch, and the option to choose between a refrigerator, television set, or microwave.
Mr. John Allotey, the CEO of the Commission, expressed gratitude and appreciation to the staff for their unwavering commitment over the years.
“The awards are to show appreciation to the staff for their invaluable contributions to the success of the Commission over the years,” said Mr. Allotey.
He emphasized that the recognition was not only a form of appreciation but also served as motivation for both the winners and others to continue working diligently.
Providing an overview of the Commission's activities for the year, Mr. Allotey highlighted a 3.3 percent increase in staff strength and the significant achievements of the Rapid Response Team.
He reported that the team seized assorted lumbers, arrested suspects engaged in illegal activities, and destroyed chainsaws and excavators.
During the Green Ghana Day project, the Commission supervised the planting of over 10.7 million tree seedlings, surpassing the initial target of 10 million. Additionally, timber exports reached 249,749.32 metric cubes valued at €114 million.
While addressing challenges such as illegal mining and logging, bushfires, and cattle grazing, Mr. Allotey outlined operational targets for the next year.
These included overseeing the completion of reclamation and re-vegetation activities, initiating a Koforidua Zoo project, constructing regional offices, and commencing works under the Ghana Tourism Development Project.
Mr. Benito Owusu-Bio, Deputy Minister in charge of Lands and Forestry at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, congratulated the awardees for their selfless roles in managing the country's forest resources.
An awardee, Mr. Augustine Kofi Gyedu, expressed gratitude on behalf of the winners, pledging continued commitment to ensuring the Commission's success in fulfilling its mandates.