The Gambian Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources has announced the enforcement of stricter anti-logging measures, targeting the illegal trade and transport of timber and forest products across the country. In a statement released on 20 May 2025, Minister Roney John Manjang confirmed that the new enforcement provisions—grounded in the 2018 Forest Act—officially came into effect on 19 April 2025. The policy aims to curb deforestation, protect biodiversity, and disrupt the transnational networks responsible for illicit timber trafficking.
Under the new rules, possession or trade of unlawfully sourced wood now carries tough penalties, including the confiscation of chainsaws, vehicles, and other equipment, in addition to criminal prosecution. Authorities revealed that between 10 April and 20 May, 12 lorries carrying unauthorised timber were already impounded, signaling the start of a more aggressive crackdown.
The measures also target illegal timber imports from neighbouring countries, many of which have been linked to rosewood smuggling and unsanctioned harvesting in protected zones across West Africa. Gambia has been identified in past investigations as a key transit hub for illicit timber exports to Asia, particularly China. The Ministry has urged citizens, traders, and public officials to adhere strictly to the regulations, warning that any involvement in illegal forest activities will be met with severe legal consequences.
This move aligns with broader regional efforts by ECOWAS and the African Union to combat environmental crimes and promote sustainable forest governance amid rising global concern over climate change and biodiversity loss.
