Government has commenced the review of the Forestry Act number 4 of 2015 to strengthen forest conservation and address the emerging challenges in the forestry sector.
Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu says the decision is also supported by Cabinet resolution to amend the law in order to enhance its provision and introduce stiffer penalties against forest related crimes.
Mr Mpundu notes that the forestry sector has evolved over the years adding that this has presented new challenges and emerging issues that the current does not adequately address.
The Permanent Secretary said this in a speech read on his behalf by Northern Province Agriculture Coordinator Derrick Simukanzye during the Provincial Consultative Meeting on the Forestry Act in Kasama District.
“This review marks a crucial step towards enhancing forest conservation and management, ensuring that our natural resources are protected for the benefit of both present and future generations,” he said.
He disclosed that in addressing gaps identified in the Forest Act No. 4 of 2015, the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, in conjunction with the Ministry of Justice, had developed a Layman’s Bill to guide consultative meetings across the country.
Mr Mpundu added that the draft was formulated following consultations with stakeholders at national level.
He said among its key objectives, the proposed amendments seek to establish a National Forest Monitoring System to track forest changes, create a Forestry Licensing Committee, revise provisions relating to the establishment of national and local forest areas, and review regulations governing permits issued under the Act.
Mr Mpundu emphasised that stakeholder input at provincial and district levels would be critical in shaping a more responsive and effective legal framework capable of addressing current and future challenges in the forestry sector.
He noted that Zambia is endowed with an estimated 45.9 million hectares of forest cover, representing about 61.04 per cent of the country’s total land area, underscoring the need for vigilant protection and responsible stewardship.
Mr Mpundu further reiterated that the establishment of the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to promoting effective environmental management, climate change adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable forest management.
He commended stakeholders for their continued support and active participation in the review process, describing their involvement as a demonstration of commitment to Zambia’s national development agenda under President Hakainde Hichilema.
The Permanent Secretary also acknowledged the contributions of staff from the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, the Ministry of Justice and the Business Regulatory Review Agency for their dedication in advancing the review process.
And Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Principal Planner Mildred Miti emphasised the importance of working diligently throughout the process.
Ms Miti noted that the exercise is not merely about those present in the meeting, but about future generations.
“We want posterity to judge us fairly that we did our part as we pass the baton to the next generation of foresters and Civil Society Organisations,” she said.
Ms Miti further stated that the initiative will significantly impact both stakeholders’ work and the operations at the Forestry Department.
And one of the stakeholders, Lawrence Bwembya, welcomed the review process, describing the Forestry Act No. 4 of 2015 as both timely and progressive.
Mr Bwembya noted that the Act addresses emerging issues affecting the forestry sector including sustainable forest management, climate change mitigation, community participation, and the need to strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
He emphasised that updating and effectively implementing the law is essential to ensuring that the forestry sector remains responsive to current environmental, social, and economic challenges.
Mr Bwembya further stated that the incorporation of these emerging issues demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting forest resources while promoting sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
Timber Concessionaires Association National Chairperson, Wamundilla Chilinda welcomed the ongoing review of the Forestry Act, stating that players in the timber industry had long called for the revision of the proposed 2025 billing framework.
Mr Chilinda explained that the current Act and its billing structure have in many ways disadvantaged operators in the timber sector, particularly in terms of the cost of doing business, licensing procedures, and compliance requirements.
He noted that these challenges have affected the growth and competitiveness of local timber businesses.
Mr Chilinda further expressed hope that the concerns and proposals submitted by industry stakeholders would be carefully considered during the review process.
“We are hopeful that our proposals will be taken into account so that the revised Act can address the concerns of all interested parties and create a fair and balanced framework for stakeholders in the forestry industry,” he said.
Mr Chilinda added that a more inclusive and business friendly legal framework would not only support industry growth but also promote sustainable forest management and contribute positively to the country’s economic development.
