In celebration of this year’s International Day of Forests, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in partnership with the Forestry Commission, will host a debate competition on March 19, featuring the University of Ghana and the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
The debate will explore the topic: “The economic value of forests should be measured solely in terms of timber and non-timber forest products,” with the University of Ghana arguing for the motion, and UPSA presenting arguments against it.
A statement from the Forestry Commission highlighted that the event aims to engage youth, who are expected to become future leaders in environmental management, in discussions around forest protection and sustainable use. Dr. Hugh Brown, Chief Executive of the Commission, commended both institutions for participating and pledged support for debate preparations.
The International Day of Forests, observed annually on March 21 since 2012, is designed to raise awareness about the importance of forests, trees outside forests, and their vital role in ecosystems and livelihoods. Across Ghana, the day is typically marked by educational campaigns, tree-planting initiatives, and other activities to promote forest conservation.
In 2025, President John Dramani Mahama launched the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative (T4L) at Nkawie in the Ashanti Region, resulting in the planting of over 31 million tree seedlings across all 16 regions of Ghana, reinforcing the government’s commitment to reforestation and sustainable forest management.
This year’s debate is expected to further spark public discourse on how forests contribute to both the economy and environmental sustainability.
