The Gambia recently stepped up its fight against illegal logging, a scourge that threatens its ecosystems and the subregion’s biodiversity. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources announced, in an official statement, strict enforcement of measures against illegal logging and the trade of illicitly obtained forest products.

New measures to protect the environment

Systematic confiscation of tools and vehicles used for illegal logging (chainsaws, trucks, etc.). Legal action against anyone involved in the possession, sale, or purchase of illegal forest products.

Seizure of illegal timber: Since April 10, 12 trucks transporting illegal timber have already been intercepted by the relevant authorities.

Ban on timber trade and export

In addition, The Gambia has banned the timber trade and canceled all export and re-export permits, particularly for rosewood (locally known as Keno), a species highly prized in Asia for making luxury furniture. Port authorities have been ordered to refuse any loading of timber logs onto ships, and random container searches are now being conducted. This ban aims to stop the illegal trade in rosewood, which fuels deforestation.

Regional cooperation and challenges

The Gambian government also intends to strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries to combat cross-border timber trafficking and preserve the subregion’s forests. This approach comes at a time when Gambia has been one of Africa’s leading exporters of rosewood to China, despite the near-disappearance of its own forests.

However, civil society remains cautious about the long-term effectiveness of these measures. Local NGOs point out that gaps in law enforcement and the involvement of certain officials in the trade have often undermined previous efforts. The government acknowledges these difficulties and affirms its desire to correct past mistakes.

Ecological and Economic Challenges

Illegal logging is damaging the Gambian ecology and economy. Massive deforestation threatens biodiversity, reduces natural resources, and compromises the livelihoods of rural populations. Regionally, this phenomenon fuels a lucrative and difficult-to-control market, described as a “silent crisis” by environmental organizations.