The Director of Forestry Mr. Abdoulie Sanneh has expressed dismay over the way and manner in which the Kunkuling Forest Park in the Upper Fulladu District in the Central River Region had been exploited by the community.
Mr. Sanneh made this remark at the end of a nationwide tour, led by the Minister of Forestry and Environment, accompanied by his Permanent Secretary and other forestry officials. He asserted that the exploitation of the Kunkuling Forest Park is completely disappointing, as far as his observation is concerned.
According to Mr. Sanneh, the park deserved to be maintained as it is a government forest park, which is intended for other activities like eco-tourism. He warned against illegal felling of palm trees in the forest, which he noted, will discourage eco-tourism.
Mr. Sanneh went further to warn that whatever condition the community might face, they should not destroy the forest, as according to him, it will portray to the investors that we have resources, but we cannot manage or sustain it.
He called on both the local community and the district authorities to desist from such malpractice, especially the forestry staff, while urging them to live up to expectations. The Forestry boss also raised concern about the condition of Jeloki Forest Station in the Upper River Region, noting that there is need to improve the station to enable their staff stay there.Mr. Sanneh advised that people should be able to deliver, adding that "to whom much is given, much is always expected."
For his part, the Alkalo of Kessel Kunda, who is also a senior forestry committee member within his area, revealed that illegal cutting of trees has been an ongoing thing, particularly during the past few years.
For his part, the Chief of Upper Fulladu Biram Baldeh promised that they would collaborate with the Ministry of Forestry to stop illegal activities in the forest, and then appealed to the Minister for mobility, on behalf of the forestry staff to ensure that they effectively carry out their work.
Jatto Sillah, the Minister of Forestry and Environment advised the community to take ownership of the forest, noting that every citizen has a role to play in the sustainable management of the flora and the fauna.
