11/07/2026
The timber industry in Ghana is the fourth-largest foreign exchange earner, employing over 100,000 workers in log processing and manufacturing, etc. It primarily yields high-value hardwoods like African mahogany, sapele, and teak etc. The sector is a major source of revenue for many.. Anually, it generates over $250million(USD) in both foreign and local trade.
According to the Timber Transparency, The formal sector consisting of about 200 timber processing mills is export oriented.
The informal forestry sector, mainly chain saw milling is almost the same in terms of employment and production and also provides the bulk of the supply (85%) for the domestic market, with estimated volume of around 0.5 million m3 and market. It also provides employment for around 130,000 people and livelihood for 650,000 people and is the source of considerable revenue to most people.
The usage of timber in construction, furniture, finishing is enormous hence its needs greater attention. In Ghana’s construction and furniture sectors, we rely heavily on sawn timber, plywood, and rotary veneers. Top species include Wawa, Odum/Iroko, Danhoma, Red Wood, Ofram, Danteh, and Mahogany,
This sector is also faced with Challenges including illegal logging, weak Enforcement, environmental issues, weak machinery etc.
Timber is not just a resource but an asset as built environment professionals and we need to utilize it and manage it well with the right systems for reforestation, enforcement and sustainable sector reforms.
Sources: Forestry Commission, Timber Transparency, International Trade Organization.
