By King Amoah
In a strategic move to bolster transparency and accountability within the forestry sector, EcoCare Ghana has convened a five day intensive capacity building workshop for 15 selected Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from across the country.
The training which focused on Timber Validation Department (TVD) Audit protocols aims at equiping these organizations to serve as professional independent observers in Ghana’s timber industry.
The workshop which took place at Noda Hotel in Kumasi started from November 2nd and would be ended in November 6th, 2026.
It is a cornerstone project titled “Holding Power Accountable in Forest Governance Through Citizens Action, popularly known as Akofena.
Strengthening Oversight through the Akofena Project:
According to the Project Coordinator, Mr. Obed Owusu Addai, the Akofena project is a regional initiative currently being implemented in both Ghana and Liberia.
The project seeks to overhaul forest governance systems by prioritizing independent forest monitoring, strategic advocacy, community participation and enhanced CSO oversight of governing institutions
Specifically, we are equipping participants with the technical knowledge and practical skills required to participate meaningfully as independent observers in TVD audits, Mr. Addai stated during press briefing session on November 4th 2026.
This engagement recognizes that CSOs play a pivotal role in strengthening the independent oversight of timber legality verification.
By understanding these protocols, they can provide informed, constructive and professional guidance that can benefits the entire nation.
Technical Collaboration for Global Standards:
The training is a collaborative effort featuring technical experts from the Timber Validation Department (TVD) of the Forestry Commission and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Throughout the five days training, participants are being undertaking through the technicalities of auditing procedures, standards and key legal requirements.
Beyond the technical data, the workshop emphasizes the professional conduct, responsibilities and limitations of independent observers.
A primary goal is to ensure that CSOs can produce evidence based field observation reports that hold weight in both local and international assessments.
Key Pillars of the Training:
The workshop highlighted several critical messages that aimed at the media and stakeholders regarding the future of Ghana’s timber industry:
Inclusive Forest Governance Promotes Sustainable Development: The project emphasizes that the meaningful participation of CSOs and forest fringe communities ensures that decisions reflect the interests of those most affected by forest management.
This inclusivity is vital for local socio economic development and long term environmental sustainability.
Transparency Builds International Credibility: As Ghana seeks to maintain and expand its presence in the international timber market, a participatory legality system is essential.
By ensuring fairness and transparency, Ghana reinforces its reputation as a country committed to legal and sustainable forest management.
Independent Observation Complements Institutional Oversight: The program noted that equipping CSOs to act as observers provides an “additional layer” of stakeholder oversight.
This does not replace government functions but rather promotes a more credible audit process and strengthens public confidence in the Ghana Timber Legality Assurance System (GhLAS).
A Vision for the Future;
The Akofena project forms part of a broader effort to ensure that Ghana’s natural resources are managed with the highest levels of integrity.
By the end of the five day session, the 15 participating CSOs are expected to possess the expertise necessary to provide constructive collaboration with the Forestry Commission.
As the workshop concludes on November 6th, the expectation is clear: a more transparent, accountable and inclusive forest governance regime that secures Ghana’s timber heritage for future generations while meeting international standards.
