The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, on Wednesday paid a working visit to the staff and management of the Forestry Commission at the Commission’s Head Office near the Achimota Forest in Accra.

Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah, who is also the Member of Parliament for the Ellembelle Constituency, is currently embarking on a familiarisation tour of the various agencies under his ministry to gain first-hand information on their operations.

Accompanied by his Deputy, Mr. Yusif Sulemana, and some officials from the ministry, the Minister was received by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Hugh Clement Adokwei Brown. The visit featured an interactive forum where some staff members had the opportunity to ask questions and present their concerns to the Minister.

Addressing the staff, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah urged the Forestry Commission to develop creative and innovative strategies to commercialise some of its operations to generate revenue for the state.

He encouraged the Commission to draft a strategic plan and consider partnering with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to construct access roads linking forest reserves to promote tourism.

According to him, the development of eco-tourism enclaves in forest areas would attract visitors from various parts of the country, especially during weekends, and serve as an additional source of income for the Commission.

He further stated that if the Commission works hard to achieve this vision, it will create a strong case for the fast-tracking of their proposed remuneration review.