WES bans illegal logging to save country’s food basket

WES bans illegal logging to save country’s food basket

The state government of Western Equatoria has imposed rules on companies and individuals involved in logging to shield the country’s food basket from degradation and the potentially devastating impact of climate change.

The orders included screening logging companies, compulsory registration of all tree cutting machines in the state, an order barring the falling of trees below 50 years of age, and replacing each tree with five new plantations.

Governor Alfred Futuyo then directed the police, Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and National Security Service to enforce the order and ensure strict adherence.

Speaking to The City Review on phone from the capital, Yambio, on Wednesday, the State Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment, Alison Barnaba, said the governor’s order was inspired by the need for action against unprecedented rampant logging in the state.

“[The companies] have never followed the government procedure to register, renew after the expiration of their license, and follow all the rules and regulations.” That is why the government is telling each and everyone to follow the procedure and regulations, “said Barnaba.  

The minister pointed out that defaulters of the order would be punished but did not elaborate on the penalty, saying the measure would safeguard the ecosystem for healthy relations between humans and the environment.  

“One tree is equal to five new plantations that are why we have decided this year to raise the seedlings for agroforestry, mango, lemon, orange avocado, and many others. Even if a citizen cuts a mango tree in his own house, he will have to replace it with five because that mango is a property of the government to protect the environment, “he added.  

Forest is one of South Sudan’s natural resources, with Western Equatoria State accounting for more than 50 per cent, according to international agencies. However, since the 2013 crisis and its subsequent impact on the country’s economy, trees have become an alternative source of livelihood.

Besides exporting their products to neighbouring countries, thousands of citizens use trees to produce charcoal, resulting in deforestation in many parts of the country, especially in the Equatoria region.

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