Northern Bahr el Ghazal issues one-week ultimatum to illegal loggers

AWEIL – The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in South Sudan’s Northern Bahr el Ghazal State has issued a one-week ultimatum to all businesspeople operating with sawing machines in forested areas to renew their licenses or face penalties.

According to the state Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Garang Chan Atak, the directive aims to curb the uncontrolled cutting of trees, particularly valuable species such as mahogany, which has led to widespread deforestation.

“We are losing a large number of trees, which is contributing to desertification and reduced rainfall,” said Minister Chan. “I am giving all loggers one week to present their licenses for verification before returning to the forest. We must stop people from cutting trees at will.”

The minister expressed concern that some individuals purchase sawing machines from neighboring countries and operate deep in the forests without notifying the ministry. He said many of these illegal loggers collaborate with foreign workers skilled in timber harvesting, which has worsened the situation.

“People have taken it upon themselves to buy machines and cut down trees without our knowledge. Some even partner with foreigners to exploit our forests. We must remain vigilant against this trend,” he warned.

Chan compared the lifespan of vegetation to that of human beings, stressing that protecting forests is essential for the environment and future generations.

“The life of trees is in our hands,” he said. “We plan to introduce new regulations requiring loggers to plant two trees for every one they cut, as other countries have done.”

He also cautioned communities living in remote areas against making private deals with local loggers without consulting the ministry.

“Some people claim ownership of ancestral lands and forests and enter into agreements to cut trees. That is unacceptable,” he warned. “While communities have a stake in the forests, their management falls under government regulation. Those who bypass the proper procedures risk facing legal consequences.”

Illegal logging has increasingly become a concern in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, with several people reportedly arrested for cutting trees without authorization. The minister’s directive mirrors similar measures in Eastern Equatoria State, where authorities have tightened controls over the issuance of permits to foreigners working in the mining sector without local approval.

Chan said the government is determined to stop the exploitation of natural resources by individuals seeking quick profits at the expense of the environment.

“Our natural resources must be protected,” he emphasized. “We cannot allow a few people to deplete what belongs to the public for their selfish gain.”