JUBA — The South Sudan government on Monday warned that stern action would be taken against those illegally cutting forest trees in Central Equatoria State.
This followed a meeting over the weekend between Josephine Napwon Cosmos, the Minister of Environment and Forestry, and Paulino Lukudu Obede, the Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria State.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration to combat illegal logging and safeguard the country’s forest reserves.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Environment Minister Josephine Napwon said they will put down measures aimed at conserving the country’s forest resources and combating the effects of climate change.
“The state government must implement the orders with the support of technical experts from the Ministry of Environment,” Napwon said.
Napwon warned that without urgent intervention, the degradation of forest ecosystems could have long-term consequences for climate resilience and rural livelihoods.
“These experts have the right to review all techniques and ensure compliance in any forest-related activities.”
For his part, Paulino Lukudu, Central Equatoria State Deputy Governor, echoed the minister’s call for stronger coordination, noting that forest protection is a shared responsibility involving multiple sectors.
“The main purpose of our meeting is to enhance cooperation between the national ministry and the Central Equatoria State government,” Lukudu said.
“Protecting the environment is not just a task for one institution. It involves everyone, including some members of the organized forces who may be drawn into illegal activities due to their vulnerable living conditions, especially in border areas.”
Lukudu stressed the need to crack down on both the illegal trade of forest products and those exploiting security personnel for profit.
“We must work together to protect our forest reserves, prevent smuggling, and strengthen the security around these critical resources,” he said. “Strengthening intergovernmental cooperation is essential to addressing this crisis.”
Illegal logging has emerged as a major threat to South Sudan’s biodiversity, with Central Equatoria among the hardest-hit regions.
