A press release issued by MECCNAR said the Koto Balli Community Forest, measuring one hundred and eighty-one hectares (181.0 ha), was gazetted as a community forest in 2020, with reference code WCR-BR 006.
“It still remains a gazetted community forest, as per the Forest Act, 2018. This forest serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity and also plays a crucial role in maintaining environmental balance,” it said.
However, it observed that recent illegal encroachments upon the Koto Balli Community Forest threaten its integrity and violate the Forest Act, 2018, under which the area was designated as a protected community forest, as duly published in the National Gazette.
MECCNAR and MOLRGRA emphasise that any land document acquired for a parcel of land, or development activity within the Koto Balli Community Forest, is rendered null and void and illegal, respectively.
It strictly warned all individuals and entities involved in land sales or transactions within the forest to cease their activities immediately.
“Preserving the Koto Balli Community Forest is crucial for present and future generations, and MECCNAR and MOLRGRA are committed to upholding the law and ensuring the protection of our natural heritage. Any attempts to exploit or degrade this invaluable resource will not be tolerated,” it further said.
“In addition to an ongoing internal inquiry, commissioned by the Honourable Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, a comprehensive investigation will also be undertaken by the Gambia Police Force, to crackdown on the illegal sale of lands at the community forest. The outcome of the investigation will guide Government of The Gambia on the actions to be taken within the next four weeks, to address the issue,” it also said.
In the meantime, members of the public who bought land within the Koto Balli Community Forest, are encouraged to contact both MECCNAR and MOLRGRA.
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