Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
THE Forest Commission has intensified its crackdown on illegal charcoal and firewood trading in Matabeleland North where it has impounded 17 vehicles, seized hundreds of bags of charcoal and recovered tonnes of firewood in a bid to curb deforestation.
The enforcement blitz, which is being conducted in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has also resulted in the recovery of 262 bags of charcoal and the issuance of 44 tickets, with the average fine standing at US$100.
Forestry Commission provincial co-ordinator for Matabeleland North, Mr Fortunes Matutu confirmed the crackdown, saying the operations were targeting illegal transportation and trading of firewood.
“The Forestry Commission has intensified its enforcement blitz against illegal charcoal trading and deforestation, recording major seizures and arrests in September 2026 to protect Zimbabwe’s woodland ecosystems,” he said.
“From our statistics, this month we have so far impounded 17 vehicles for illegally ferrying firewood, recovered 58 cubic meters of firewood from trucks and illegal traders operating around Bulawayo.
“We also recovered 262 bags of charcoal from illegal transit routes and raid operations within the CBD and issued 44 tickets or fines with an average fine of US$100.”
Charcoal is widely used by small-scale poultry farmers and maize roasters in urban areas, while firewood is widely used by various businesses involved in cooking.
Mr Matutu said the commission was conducting patrols in deforestation hotspots, highways and points of operation for firewood and timber traders.
Mr Matutu urged illegal charcoal and firewood traders to regularise their operations in line with the relevant legislation.
“The Forestry Commission reiterates that all movement and trade of forest produce, which includes timber, firewood and charcoal, require proper licensing and permits under the Forest Act,” he said.
Mr Matutu said the commission had also intensified forest protection measures against veld fires, with dedicated firefighting teams on standby.
He said the commission was also working on initiatives aimed at promoting the assisted natural regeneration of degraded forests.
Mr Matutu said preparations for the upcoming tree-planting season had begun, urging communities to participate in efforts to restore forests and protect the environment.
He called on members of the public to report illegal forestry activities to their nearest Forestry Commission office.
Mr Matutu said forests play a critical role in supporting the national economy, including tourism, agriculture, mining and water provision.
“Trees are not idle properties for destruction at will but an important part of society supporting pillars of our economy and sectors including tourism, agriculture, mining, water provision and essential ecosystem services for our communities,” said Mr Matutu.
With deforestation and land degradation on the rise, Mr Matutu said there was a need for sustainable forest management and regular tree-planting.
“Protecting our indigenous woodlands helps preserve ecosystems, supports rural communities, protects our economy and keeps our heritage safe for future generations,” he said.
Mr Matutu said the Government’s declaration of Matabeleland North as a Special Economic Zone for hardwood during the second quarter of 2026 had prompted the Forestry Commission to strengthen management of forests.
He said the measures were intended to ensure that the country derived long-term economic and environmental benefits from its woodland resources.
