Gabon Encadré Sciage Artisanal

The Gabonese government has taken a significant step towards promoting responsible and regulated artisanal logging in the Nyanga province. On November 14, 2026, a convention was signed in Tchibanga, the capital of the province, between the provincial water and forestry department, community forest managers, and local loggers. This agreement aims to organize and oversee artisanal logging activities in community forests, ensuring they align with existing forestry regulations.

The signing of this tripartite convention is a response to the need for better regulation of artisanal logging, combating illicit wood extraction, and promoting the sustainable use of community forest resources. Lieutenant Colonel Teddy Thérence Edou, head of the provincial water and forestry department, emphasized that the administration's goal is not to hinder citizens' legal economic activities but to ensure that resource exploitation and valorization respect the country's laws and regulations.

The convention outlines the importance of legality, control, discipline, and transparency in artisanal logging. Edou urged loggers and community forest managers to view this initiative as a collective responsibility to uphold forestry legality, rather than just a commercial opportunity. Local loggers have committed to adhering to the convention's terms, demonstrating professionalism and compliance with established rules.

Community forest managers have also pledged to assume their responsibilities in managing this resource and to work with the provincial water and forestry department. The department's objective is to ensure that artisanal logging contributes to the local economy without facilitating illicit forestry exploitation. This initiative marks a crucial step towards sustainable forest management and the preservation of Gabon's natural resources.

The agreement was signed in a context where the need for more effective regulation of artisanal logging has become increasingly pressing. The provincial water and forestry department, community forest managers, and local loggers have shown a willingness to collaborate and find solutions to the challenges facing the sector. This cooperation is essential for promoting responsible and sustainable forest management practices.

The Gabonese government has demonstrated its commitment to protecting the country's natural resources and promoting sustainable development. The regulation of artisanal logging in Nyanga province is a key aspect of this effort, and the convention signed on November 14, 2026, represents a significant milestone. The success of this initiative will depend on the continued collaboration and commitment of all parties involved.

The implementation of this convention will be closely monitored, and its impact on the local economy and forest management will be assessed. The provincial water and forestry department will play a crucial role in ensuring that the agreement is enforced and that its objectives are met. The future of artisanal logging in Nyanga province looks set to become more regulated and sustainable.

Key points

• The Gabonese government has signed a convention to regulate artisanal logging in Nyanga province, promoting responsible and sustainable forest management practices.