Kenya halts raw veneer exports to protect forests

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale. [Samson Wire, Standard]

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.

"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."