By Eddah Waithaka
The Forestry Society of Kenya (FSK) is applauding President William Ruto’s decision to lift the ban on logging in public plantations, a move they hail as a critical step toward resolving a chronic timber shortage and boosting the economy.
The society, which promotes sustainable forest management, called the long-awaited move a necessary measure to unlock the economic potential of Kenya’s commercial forests.
Addressing a Critical Shortage
The 2018 logging ban, while well-intentioned, severely exacerbated a national timber deficit. FSK experts note that Kenya has been unable to meet its own demand for timber, wood products, and pulp, forcing a reliance on costly imports.
The society emphasizes that plantation forests exist specifically to provide these essential products. Keeping them unharvested, they argue, created a significant supply-demand gap that hurt local industries and consumers.
A Win for Economy and Jobs
Lifting the ban promises immediate benefits. The FSK states the move will spur economic growth and create much-needed jobs in the forestry sector and its related industries.
“Sustainable forest management spurs economic development and environmental sustainability,” the society affirmed, linking responsible harvesting to national prosperity.
A Strong Call for Sustainability
While celebrating the decision, the FSK issued a strong call for strict adherence to sustainable practices to protect the long-term health of the forests.
The society recommends three key actions. Enforce the Allowable Annual Cut (AAC)
Harvesting must not exceed scientifically determined levels to prevent over-exploitation.
Update and Follow Management Plans
Plantation managers must operate under updated, actionable plans that guarantee sustainable conservation and harvesting.
Expand Commercial Plantations
The government should promote new commercial plantations outside of the existing 152,000 hectares of public forest land to better meet the needs of a growing population.
The FSK has pledged to work closely with the government to ensure professional forestry practices guide the resumed logging activities, ensuring Kenya’s forests thrive for both current and future generations.
