Forestry enthusiast, Katungula, calls for harmonization of Agriculture, Forestry institutes

Forestry enthusiast, Chaliafya Katungula, has called for harmonising the roles of the Agriculture Institute of Zambia and the Forestry Institute of Zambia under a unified regulatory framework to enhance oversight and accountability, similar to the health sector’s approach.

Katungula, team lead at Forestry Advocacy for Communities, Communication, Transparency, Accountability, and Research (FACCTOR), made this statement in Lusaka on Tuesday.

He stated that this consolidation should be accompanied by stringent code of ethics and conduct for forestry professionals to ensure adherence to best practices and ethical standards.

“Illegal logging and charcoal production are not only threatening Zambia’s rich biodiversity but also undermining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and exacerbating climate change,” Katungula said.

He highlighted the need for stringent enforcement measures, including the potential dismissal of complicit forestry officers, stressing the government’s serious stance on this issue.

Katungula commended the initiatives outlined by Green Economy and Environment Minister Mike Mposha, noting they reflect a strong political will to reform and safeguard Zambia’s forests.

“To effectively combat illegalities, a comprehensive strategy must be adopted, encompassing legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, ethical standards, and community engagement,” he stated.

He also called for a review of the Forest Act to align it with contemporary environmental challenges and the aspirations of the Ministry.

Katungula advocated for updating the legal framework to include stricter penalties for offenders, provisions for the forfeiture of vehicles used in illegal activities, and robust regulations for charcoal production and forest concessions.

“Exploring legislative measures akin to those combating stock theft, such as non-bailable offenses and severe prison sentences, could serve as a deterrent against forest crimes,” he said.

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