Gambia reviews Forest Act 2018 to boost logging penalties

Weak penalties in The Gambia's current forestry law are getting a rewrite after months of crackdowns still failed to slow illegal logging.

Forest Act 2018 amendment in the works

• Minister Rohey John Manjang confirmed that a draft amendment exists.
• It has been sent to the Ministry of Justice for review.
• Current sanctions are seen as too soft to deter offenders.
• Manjang addressed the National Assembly on the issue.

Enforcement has been aggressive lately

• Forestry officials seized 27 vehicles hauling illegal timber.
• Over 30 charcoal-production sites got dismantled in 10 months.
• A special enforcement unit includes military and police personnel.
• Offenders faced prosecution through the courts.

Logging permits still exist under the rules

• Manjang clarified that there is no total ban on tree felling.
• Permits go through strict review and can be revoked.
• Forest resources are framed as community-essential assets.
• Charcoal use is legal, but production must follow regulations.

Big reforestation and energy goals announced

• A nationwide push targets planting 30 million trees.
• Communities and private partners are part of that campaign.
• Cleaner energy alternatives are being actively promoted.
• Collaboration on a National Transhumance Policy is pledged.