Kenya halts raw veneer exports to protect forests
Environment & Climate
By
David Njaaga
| Aug 27, 2024
The government has announced the immediate suspension of raw veneer exports to protect forests and support reforestation efforts.
In a statement on Tuesday, August 27, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the decision is part of a strategy to stop premature tree harvesting, which threatens the country’s reforestation plans.
Raw veneer refers to unprocessed sheets of wood, which are often exported before being finished or treated.
This type of export can contribute to the depletion of forest resources if trees are harvested unsustainably.
"This suspension takes effect immediately," said Duale.
READ MORE
Madagascar tycoon to buy Zuku parent firm Wananchi Group
How container cash deposits are creating a problem for Kenyan traders
Gold rush: How illegal gallbladder trade threatens Lake Victoria fishers
Real estate posts high productivity as challenges hit wholesale, retail sectors
Agencies in fresh plan to market Kenyan coffee
AI-driven smart borders transform travel security
Fresh test for Ruto as IMF urges new tax policies to unlock loans
Kenya's nuclear power plan faces significant cost hurdles
Healthcare and business: Diana Okello's journey in aviation medicine niche
How access to credit is boosting tech adoption, earnings for SMEs
"KFS has been directed not to issue any 'no objection letter' for export."
He said the suspension aligns with the National Landscape and Ecosystem Restoration Strategy, which aims to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded land by planting 15 billion trees.
Duale noted the government is committed to reaching 30 per cent tree cover by 2032.
"We are taking these measures to safeguard Kenya's environmental future," he said, urging stakeholders to support the plan.
The decision follows reports of premature tree harvesting, which undermines the government's restoration goals.
By halting the export of raw veneer, the government intends to ensure trees mature and contribute to the country's ecological restoration.
"Our commitment to achieving 30 per cent tree cover by 2032 is firm," he added.
"We need the support of all stakeholders in this effort to protect our environment."
- Nadco report proposals good, Gen Z protests game changer
- Mt Kenya's political landscape to feel the heat should Raila get AU job
- Elodie Zone opens up on condition that made her struggle in school
- How Okiya Omtatah cheated death at a Kisumu blackspot
- Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta were incompatible from the word go