The only internationally certified forester in The Gambia quit after 23 years, exposing serious problems at the Department of Forestry. Buba Bojang left because less qualified people received promotions instead of him. He worked without electricity or internet in his office. His resignation letter claimed that someone had removed important papers from his file. The department appointed a military officer with no forestry background as director despite staff protests.
This breakdown affects forest communities across the country. Local forest committees manage about 350,000 hectares but need government support for their work. These groups face delays and uncertainty as department expertise disappears. Illegal logging increases as enforcement weakens. Forest rangers feel discouraged, and community patrols lose their authority.
The situation threatens national climate promises and local incomes from carbon credits. Communities might abandon conservation efforts when they see government failures. Quick action is needed before more damage occurs. An outside investigation should investigate document tampering claims. Officials must put qualified people back into leadership roles.
Donors should demand better governance practices. Creating an independent Forest Commission could help protect decisions from political interference. The government needs training programs for new forestry experts. This crisis requires immediate attention before forest communities face worse problems.
This breakdown affects forest communities across the country. Local forest committees manage about 350,000 hectares but need government support for their work. These groups face delays and uncertainty as department expertise disappears. Illegal logging increases as enforcement weakens. Forest rangers feel discouraged, and community patrols lose their authority.
The situation threatens national climate promises and local incomes from carbon credits. Communities might abandon conservation efforts when they see government failures. Quick action is needed before more damage occurs. An outside investigation should investigate document tampering claims. Officials must put qualified people back into leadership roles.
Donors should demand better governance practices. Creating an independent Forest Commission could help protect decisions from political interference. The government needs training programs for new forestry experts. This crisis requires immediate attention before forest communities face worse problems.
