Ghana, UK Discuss VPA Progress and Forest Governance

Ghana and the United Kingdom have recommitted to strengthening forest governance and sustainable timber trade.

This came up as Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Hon. Yusif Sulemana held bilateral talks with UK Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Mary Creagh on the sidelines of London Climate Action Week.

The meeting took place on June 23, 2026, at Kew Gardens on the margins of London Climate Action Week.

Discussions focused on the Ghana–UK Voluntary Partnership Agreement processes and next steps to deepen cooperation on legality, transparency, and sustainability in Ghana’s timber supply chain.

Both ministers reviewed progress made under the VPA framework since its implementation and explored practical ways to enhance collaboration and emphasised the need for stronger systems to ensure timber exported from Ghana meets legal and sustainability standards while supporting livelihoods and forest conservation.

Hon. Sulemana said the engagement forms part of Ghana’s broader efforts to build international partnerships on forest governance and climate-related trade.

He noted that sustainable management of forest resources remains central to Ghana’s climate and economic agenda.

The Deputy Minister added that working closely with partners like the UK will help improve traceability, enforcement, and market access for Ghanaian timber.

Minister Creagh welcomed Ghana’s efforts and pledged the UK’s continued support to advance the VPA and related forest initiatives.

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