By Fatou Sillah
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources has announced the imposition of a stringent embargo on the felling of trees and the trade in illegal forest products. In a statement issued to the press, the Ministry confirmed that the ban, effective as of April 12, 2025, is being enforced under Section 133 of the Forest Act, 2018.
“The Honorable Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, acting under Section 133 of the Forest Act, 2018, is imposing an embargo on the felling of endangered forest trees,” the statement declared.
The ban extends beyond tree felling to include the sale, purchase, and possession of forest products obtained in contravention of the law.
“In the same vein,” the statement continued, “the Honorable Minister, acting under powers conferred by the same act, is prohibiting the sale, purchase, and possession of forest produce taken, collected, or produced in contravention of the Forest Act, 2018.”
The Ministry emphasized that this decisive measure reflects its unwavering commitment to the protection and conservation of the nation’s forests and natural environment. “This imposition of this embargo underscores the ministry’s commitment in taking decisive action in ensuring that our forests are protected to conserve our environment.”
The statement further revealed that the Ministry, through the Department of Forestry, has already launched a major crackdown on illegal logging and related forest exploitation. Since the enforcement began, 12 trucks transporting illicit forest products have been intercepted and impounded.
“From 12th April 2025, to date, a total of 12 trucks laden with illegally obtained forest products have been impounded by the Department of Forestry. Consequently, any individual or entity found in possession of, or engaging in the sale or purchase of forest produce, collected in violation of the Forest Act, 2018, will face stringent legal consequences as outlined in the Act, and the Criminal Code of The Gambia,” the statement warned.
Additionally, the Ministry highlighted that any tools or equipment used in the illegal harvesting of forest products—including chainsaws, vehicles, axes, and cutlasses—will be confiscated, as stipulated under Section 121(1) of the Forest Act.
“In this regard, the competent Gambia Government authorities will continue to work closely with their counterparts in neighboring countries to strengthen collaborations in order to protect the sub-region’s forest cover. All are hereby strictly warned to respect international territories and laws, as The Gambia stands strong in supporting the implementation of penalties thereto,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry concluded by urging all citizens, businesses, stakeholders, and particularly government officials to comply with the embargo. Those intending to engage in the trade of permitted forest products are required to follow due legal processes and obtain the appropriate documentation.