The Association of Women in Timber-Ghana (WiTG) has called for gender equity in timber processing factories.

The Association laments women have lost opportunities in the timber value chain due to the under-representation of women in forest governance.

A study conducted by the Global Timber Forum (GTF) revealed the ratio of men to women in timber processing factories globally is about 73% to 27%.

The Association of Women in Timber-Ghana (WiTG) has been launched in Kumasi to help build and increase the participation of women in the sector.

President of the group, Ernestina Owusu Banahene, says the Association will join forces with research institutions to tackle issues of reforestation for future supply of raw materials.

"Considering the role of women in this male-dominated sector, I believe we deserve the needed recognition, it was prudent for women in the sector to come together to project their importance and contributions in the forest sector, hence the Women in Timber-Ghana (WiTG) Association. 

What the WiTG platform offers is a tailored solution to addressing industry challenges that are affecting women," she said.

 The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Jinapor, believes the Association will help women in the forest sector to showcase their abilities to improve activities in forestry.

He was represented by Edith Abruquah, the Acting Executive Director of the Forestry Commission.

"Participation of women in the sector is arguably often overlooked. 

I was elated when I received a briefing on this laudable initiative of establishing a Women’s Group to serve as a platform to promote the contributions of women in the sector while offering opportunities for building their capacities to ensure that they manage their businesses viably.

I am convinced that this Association, in addition to other ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will prove useful in addressing gender inequality for every Ghanaian woman in the forest sector to showcase their abilities and capacities in order that society at large will be beneficiary," Mrs. Abruquah read on behalf of the sector minister

The launch of the Women in Timber-Ghana Association in Kumasi was on the theme: “Strengthening Women’s Participation in Forestry and Wood Industry in Ghana”.

The association currently has 150 registered members.