Accra, Oct 16, GNA - Professor Dominic Kweku Fobih, Minister of Land, Forestry and Mines, on Monday expressed Government's appreciation to the Dutch Government for its support to the forestry and wildlife sectors.

He said the Royal Netherlands Government has given immense support through a nongovernmental organisation (NGO), Tropenbos International, which showed commitment and solidarity in the management and development of natural resources for poverty alleviation in many rural communities.

Prof Fobih, who was receiving Professor Rudy Rabbinage, Board Chairman for Tropenbos International during a courtesy call on him in his office, said Tropenbos Ghana Programme has played a lead role in providing forums for policy discussion of crucial forestry issues, research support, community awareness creation and livelihood support. "These interventions have particularly provided distinctive scientific, informed policy and strategic support for the sustainable management of Ghana's high forest resources for the benefit of our people and also enhanced conservation practices," he said. Prof Rabbinage, who is also the Chairman of the United Nations Committee for the Development of Africa, pledged his Government's continued support for the forestry sector.

Mr Kwabena Nketia, Team Leader, Tropenbos Ghana Programme, said the Ghana Project has been extended for another five years, after the completion of the first phase which came to an end in 2005. He said so far the Royal Netherlands Government has provided 1.5 million Euros for the Project's implementation in Ghana.