The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism suspended the commercial harvesting of mopane trees in the Kunene region last week.
This was announced by the director of forestry, Johnson Ndokosho.
The immediate suspension comes after the ministry noted the unsustainable harvesting of this tree species with concern.
In a letter written to the chief forester, Kamuhelo Lisao, Ndokosho said the management has decided to immediately suspend commercial mopane activities.
“As you are aware that Colophospermum mopane is a protected species in Namibia, there are concerns regarding the unsustainable harvesting of this species,” Ndokosho said.
He said due to environmental concerns and after careful consideration, it has been decided that all activities related to the harvesting of the mopane tree species for charcoal, firewood and dry root should be halted immediately.
“This directive applies to all individuals and entities involved in the harvesting, marketing, transportation and export of mopane products,” he said.
According to Ndokosho, the issuance of permits for mopane harvesting, marketing, transport and export is suspended until further notice.
“This decision is crucial to ensure the sustainable management of mopane resources and to address potential environmental repercussions associated with the current harvesting practices for charcoal and firewood production,” he said.
He said the ministry would be initiating an awareness campaign to inform farmers of proper procedures for handling already harvested mopane products.
“It is imperative that these products are managed in an environmentally responsible manner,” Ndokosho said.
“All forestry offices in the region are urged to implement this directive and strengthen law-enforcement measures to stop any movement of mopane products from the region,” he said.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda says the directive is applicable to the Kunene region specifically.
He says this comes after the ministry has observed unsustainable practices in the region.
“We need to stop the harvesting and make our assessment and revisit our decision,” he says.
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