TPAZ Appeals to President Hichilema to Revisit Mukula Timber Ban
Written by Mafken FM Newsroom on 13 January 2025
By Respite Kaoma
The Timber Producers Association of Zambia (TPAZ) has called on President Hakainde Hichilema to fulfill his campaign pledge to lift the Mukula timber ban, citing challenges faced by industry players.
TPAZ President Charles Masange told Mafken News that members of the association have struggled with delays in obtaining concession licenses and restrictive tenure periods since the ban was imposed.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts to support the industry, Mr. Masange emphasized that existing forestry laws and regulations, particularly the Forest Act and the National Forestry Policy, are major obstacles to growth.
He urged government to review these policies to address the concerns of timber producers and promote sustainable development in the sector.
