Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Mr George Manyumwa is steering the Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe’s ship to greater heights, with the parastatal recording significant progress in governance, financial accountability and operational efficiency since his appointment as director-general in July 2025.
With support from the board of commissioners, chaired by Ambassador Mahomed Jassat, the commission has registered measurable gains, signalling a decisive turnaround after years of operational and financial challenges.
Independent quarterly performance reviews indicate that achievement scores improved from 3,14 in 2024 to 4,4 by the end of 2025, reflecting strengthened leadership oversight, improved systems and a culture of accountability within the organisation.
In a major boost to corporate governance, the commission convened its long-outstanding Annual General Meeting and submitted audited financial statements to the Auditor-General, steps that had been pending for several years.
The move restored stakeholder confidence and aligned the institution with public sector governance standards.
The commission also finalised its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan in December last year, together with the 2026 Annual Plan.
Programme-based budgets were crafted to ensure that resources are aligned to strategic priorities and key result areas.
In line with the Government’s results-based management framework, senior managers signed performance contracts at the beginning of 2026, reinforcing transparency and strengthening accountability at the executive level.
Cost-containment and revenue-enhancement measures have also been introduced, including centralised payments, integration of bank accounts and strengthened partnerships in gazetted forests.
Within months, the commission generated more than US$3 million through new contracts and conservation support commitments.
Combined with cost-saving initiatives, the parastatal recorded net gains of US$3,06 million, marking a notable financial turnaround.
Stakeholders have further demonstrated renewed confidence in the institution by committing over 30 vehicles and implements to enhance field operations, improving the commission’s capacity to protect and manage forest estates.
Employee welfare has equally received attention. Salary arrears were cleared, a medical aid facility was introduced and more than 300 employees were provided with uniforms, boosting morale and restoring stability within the organisation.
On its core mandate, the commission planted a record 27,1 million trees by the end of 2025, compared to 19 million in the previous season.
With the planting season still ongoing, the annual target of 30 million trees is expected to be achieved and potentially surpassed.
To enhance productivity and value addition, the Commission commissioned a tissue culture facility and a wood kiln machine, positioning itself to adopt modern technologies in forest propagation and timber processing.
Despite the gains, challenges remain, including vehicle shortages, low remuneration and illegal settlements in gazetted forests.
However, mitigation measures are underway, including solarisation of provincial offices, installation of internet and communication services and continued engagement with Treasury and other stakeholders for financial and material support.
With renewed leadership, strengthened governance systems and a clear strategic direction, the Forestry Commission is consolidating its role as the custodian of the country’s forest resources and contributing to national development objectives.
