Kenya Forest Service: Strict Penalties for Transporting Firewood Without a Permit
Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued a clear directive: permits are now mandatory for transporting all forest products, including firewood, charcoal, timber, poles, and bamboo, nationwide.
This regulation, stemming from the Forest Conservation and Management Act 2016, seeks to ensure responsible forest resource management.
The necessity for this clarification arose after a recent incident in Sabatia, Vihiga County, where a company challenged an arrest related to the transportation of bamboo without proper authorization.
“The Company in question has since tried to question the legality of the arrest,” KFS relayed. This resistance prompted KFS to reiterate the legal requirements to avoid any further confusion.
To prevent legal complications, KFS strongly advises the public to consult their nearest KFS office. Obtaining the necessary permit and technical assistance before transporting any forest produce is crucial.
“The public is advised to consult the nearest Kenya Forest Service office before transporting any forest produce in order to receive a permit and any other technical assistance,” the service stated.
President William Ruto recently authorized the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) to cultivate wood within KFS-managed forests. This decision, aimed at benefiting both forest conservation and tea farmers who rely on wood fuel, introduces a new dynamic to forest product management.
“You have asked that we allocate you spaces in our forested areas and you can do commercial forestry where you harvest and we share the benefits between your factories and KFS,” Ruto stated. This increased activity underscores the importance of adhering to the new permit regulations.
The KFS emphasizes that “Forest products may include timber, poles, bamboo, charcoal among other materials.” Therefore, any movement of these materials requires official KFS documentation.
In summary, complying with KFS permit regulations is now essential for anyone involved in transporting forest products in Kenya. This measure ensures sustainable forest management and prevents legal issues.
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Kenya Forest Service: Strict Penalties for Transporting Firewood Without a Permit
