adminwere planted last year against the same target. Forestry Commission public relations manager Ms Violet Makoto said Manicaland, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central and
Mashonaland East planted the highest number of trees.
“The TWEP has been a success so far and we expect the new Statutory Instrument 116 of 2013 to assist in cementing what we have started hence making it illegal for farmers to cut down trees indiscriminately,” she said.
The new SI came into effect on June 2 and empowers the commission to seize firewood, timber or equipment used in committing offences under the regulations.
“Tobacco farmers can now be licensed to cure tobacco using lawfully obtained firewood. Previously we had been dealing with willing farmers but now there is a law that makes it criminal to cut down trees indiscriminately,” she said.
Ms Makoto said arrangements were being made to ensure that when farmers bought tobacco seedlings they would also receive free tree seedlings.
“There are also plans to ensure that trees are supplied to farmers so as to reduce pressure on indigenous forests,” she said. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter