Forestry Commission tackles illegal mining in 50 forest reserves - Hugh Brown

Dr Hugh Brown, the Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, has announced that his organization has been actively combating illegal mining activities in 50 forest reserves across the country since 2025. In 2025 alone, the commission managed to arrest 453 illegal miners and categorized the affected reserves into green, yellow, and orange zones to enhance monitoring and control measures.

During a recent Facebook post dated August 26, 2026, titled "Milestones of the Forestry Commission under CE Dr Hugh C.A Brown," the Chief Executive highlighted several significant achievements since taking office in 2025. These include the reclaiming of nine "No-Go" forest reserves where galamsey operators were removed, allowing restoration efforts to begin once more.

To tackle illegal mining, the Forestry Commission established ten military camps in 2026 to protect high-risk forest reserves. Plans are in place to expand this number to 34 across the nation. Furthermore, plantations now contribute to about 60% of forest products, and approximately 400 private entities have received degraded lands for restoration and plantation development, resulting in the creation of 17,300 jobs.

The Commission has intensified its focus on compliance, environmental protection, and reforestation. Moreover, Dr Brown personally visited various forest reserves, such as Pru Shelter Belt, TEIN 1, and TEIN 2, to evaluate their current state and discuss ongoing interventions. Dr Hugh C. A. Brown's career within the Forestry Commission began through National Service and progressed through various roles, including Project Manager, Director of Plantations, and Executive Director of the Forest Services Division, before becoming the CEO of the Forestry Commission.