“Therefore, all actors in the field of forest products commercialization are hereby duly requested to pay and obtain license and royalties as required by law.”
He further advised that all individuals interested in acquiring forest product licenses and royalties to apply through the various regional forestry offices across the country.
According to Lt. Colonel Corr, this licensing system will not only generate revenue but also contribute significantly towards reducing deforestation and minimising the effects of climate change for the benefit of the present and future generations.
He further warned that if anyone is found wanting, his/her products would be seized as backed by the Forest Act 2018.
The Department of Forestry also seizes this opportunity to make it categorically clear that charcoal burning in The Gambia has been prohibited since 1978 and that the ban is not still lifted by the government of The Gambia. Therefore anyone found wanting in the country will face the full force of the forestry laws.
The Department of Forestry also reemphasised that anyone who wants to apply and acquire this valid license can visit any nearest regional forestry office within the country to obtain it legally.
