The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC), has announced the lifting of the suspension on the transportation of timber logs, signalling a major shift in the regulation of one of the country’s most contentious industries.

The decision, made in consultation with key partners such as the Office of National Security and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, comes with immediate effect and aims to restore operations under stringent conditions to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The press release, issued on November 18, 2024, detailed the framework guiding the resumption of timber transportation within and beyond Sierra Leone. While the move has been welcomed by timber stakeholders, environmental advocates remain cautious, calling for vigilance in ensuring that the industry does not once again spiral into unchecked exploitation.

Conditions for Timber Operations

The MOECC has emphasized that the suspension on the harvesting and transportation of Pterocarpus erinaceus—commonly known as “Gbenni”—remains firmly in effect. This species has been under strict protection to prevent overexploitation due to its high value and ecological significance. The preservation of Gbenni reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining biodiversity and protecting Sierra Leone’s vulnerable forest ecosystems.

However, the ministry has authorized the transportation of only pre-convention stocks of Afzelia africana—locally known as “Lenge.” This species was included in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix II on February 23, 2023, marking it as a protected species under international environmental laws.

Timber operators must secure compliance certificates from the Forestry Department and the MOECC before transporting any Lenge logs. This regulation underscores the government’s intent to strike a balance between economic interests and environmental preservation.

Source: thesierraleonetelegraph.com