Government Suspends Raw Veneer Exports to Support Reforestation Efforts

The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry has announced the immediate suspension of raw veneer exports.

The suspension order, issued by Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, directs the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to refrain from issuing any “no objection letters” for the export of raw veneer materials.

“The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry announces the suspension of exports of raw veneer materials. This decision takes effect Immediately. KFS has further been directed not to issue any “no objection letter” for export. This suspension is a resolute measure in support of the National Landscape and Ecosystem Restoration Strategy,” the ministry’s notice read.

According to the ministry, the country has experienced an increase in the premature harvesting of immature trees, which are primarily used to produce veneer.

This practice, the government says, poses a threat to President William Ruto’s ambitious reforestation efforts.

“This strategy, which aims to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded landscapes by planting 15 billion trees, is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Recent reports have highlighted the premature harvesting of immature trees on farmlands, a practice that threatens the success of the government’s reforestation efforts,” the ministry explained.

By halting the export of raw veneer, the government intends to curb this practice and ensure that trees are allowed to mature, contributing effectively to the national restoration goals.

“The suspension is necessary to safeguard Kenya’s environmental future and should inspire all stakeholders to join us in this crucial endeavour,” the ministry added.