The Vice President of the Woodworkers Association of Ghana, Mr. Eric Fosu, has raised concerns about the growing impact of illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—on the country’s carpentry industry.
According to him, the sector depends heavily on timber for producing a wide range of furniture, including wardrobes, sofas, office fittings and other wood-based items. However, widespread deforestation linked to illegal mining is making it increasingly difficult for carpenters to access quality wood.
Mr. Fosu, who is also Director of Only Prayer Can Save Furniture Works and a council member of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce, shared these concerns in an interview with Nhyiraba Kwadwo Owusu Aduomi, host of the morning show on Space FM in Tarkwa.
He warned that if the situation persists, Ghana could be forced to rely on imported wood for furniture production, a development he believes would negatively affect local artisans and the broader industry.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Fosu highlighted the value of carpentry as a skilled trade, noting how it has positively shaped his life and career. He encouraged young people to consider carpentry as a viable profession, stressing its potential to create jobs and support livelihoods.