The Gambia’s Department of Forestry has called on all individuals involved in the commercialization of forest products to obtain valid annual licenses and settle their royalties, emphasizing the importance of operating within the law.
Under the leadership of Director Lt Colonel Salifu Corr, the department stressed that many vendors are currently engaging in forestry activities without proper authorization, a practice deemed unlawful under the Forest Act 2018. “This is a serious concern for the department. All actors in the field must comply by obtaining licenses and paying royalties as required by law,” Colonel Corr stated.
The Director explained that the licensing system is not only intended to ensure legal compliance but also to enhance government revenue and support sustainable forest management. “Applying for a valid license allows vendors to operate legitimately while contributing to efforts to reduce deforestation and mitigate climate change,” he added.
Colonel Corr further highlighted that licenses can be obtained through regional forestry offices across the country, ensuring accessibility for all interested parties. He warned that individuals operating without proper documentation risk having their forest products, including charcoal, seized in line with the Forest Act 2018.
The director also reiterated that charcoal production has been banned in the Gambia since 1978, and the prohibition remains in force. Any violations of forestry laws will attract strict enforcement measures.
The Department of Forestry, under Colonel Corr’s leadership, is using this opportunity to stress the importance of compliance with forestry regulations, safeguarding the country’s natural resources for present and future generations.
Vendors and forestry actors are encouraged to visit their nearest regional forestry office to acquire the necessary licenses and ensure their operations are fully legal.
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The Gambia’s Department of Forestry has called on all individuals involved in the commercialization of forest products to obtain valid…
The post Forestry Department Urges Vendors to Legalize Operations, Boost Government Revenue appeared first on .
