Chilanga forestry revenue hits K72,120 in May

CHILANGA – The Forestry Department in Chilanga District has announced a significant revenue collection of K72,120 for the month of May 2026, a figure largely attributed to the issuance of various concessions and permits related to forest resource utilisation. This revelation was made by Chilanga District Forestry Officer, Ms. Emelda Luchele, who underscored the department's commitment to sustainable forest management and revenue generation. Ms. Luchele explained that the bulk of the revenue was generated from fees associated with timber harvesting licenses, charcoal production permits, and other non-timber forest product concessions. These permits are crucial for regulating the exploitation of forest resources, ensuring that activities are carried out legally and with some measure of environmental oversight. The revenue collected is vital for supporting the department's operational costs, including patrols, reforestation efforts, and community sensitisation programmes aimed at curbing illegal logging and deforestation. The K72,120 collected in May represents a consistent effort by the Chilanga Forestry Department to contribute to both local government coffers and national conservation goals. While the figure may seem modest in the broader national budget, it signifies the economic value of local forest resources and the potential for increased revenue through efficient and transparent management. Such local-level collections are aggregated to provide a clearer picture of the forestry sector's contribution to Zambia's economy, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas like Chilanga. Zambia's forestry sector plays a dual role, serving as a critical natural resource base for livelihoods and a significant contributor to the national economy. However, it also faces immense pressure from deforestation due to agricultural expansion, charcoal production, and illegal logging. The revenue generated through regulated activities is therefore essential not only for funding c