The Gambia Environmental Alliance (GEA) strongly opposed the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources (MECCNAR) ‘s decision to grant GACH Global temporary usage of part of Salagi Forest Park.
In a press statement received by TAT, the environmental advocacy group expressed strong concern over GACH Global’s allocation of part of Salagi Forest Park. They described this action as a blatant disregard for key provisions of the Forest Act of 2018. The group pointed out that the move, orchestrated by MECCNAR, undermines the principles of sustainable forest management and community engagement enshrined in Gambian law.
According to them, the Ministry of Environment has violated the 2018 Forest Act, which outlines requirements for allocating a portion of a forest park. They argue that MECCNAR failed to adhere to environmental impact assessment (EIA) principles, community engagement, sustainable management, and transparency.
“The lack of transparency around GACH Group’s activities undermines public trust and accountability, as evidenced by the reality behind “Temporary Use” of part of Salagi Forest Park. The ongoing excavation and construction of fencing foundations within Salagi Forest Park clearly indicate permanent intentions, posing a serious threat to the area’s ecological balance,” GEA said in a statement expressing its condemnation of the allocation.
“Attempts to label these activities as “temporary” are misleading and contradict the very principles of sustainable forest governance. Salagi Forest Park is an invaluable ecological and community resource, providing a buffer against climate change through carbon sequestration, protection for The Gambia’s biodiversity, livelihood support for surrounding communities, and cultural and environmental significance for future generations.”
GEA reiterates its total solidarity with the Sukuta community and all Gambians advocating for preserving the nation’s natural heritage. It observes that the country’s forests are not commodities to be exploited for private gain under any guise.
The release also highlighted key demands that include an immediate halt to all activities by GACH Group in Salagi Forest Park; full disclosure of all agreements and approvals granted to GACH Group; strict adherence to the provisions of the Forest Act, 2018, including the completion of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and meaningful community consultations, adding that the prioritization of sustainable forest management and community empowerment in all decisions affecting Gambian forests must be adhered to.
“The GEA remains resolute in protecting The Gambia’s natural resources. We urge the government and relevant stakeholders to uphold their legal and ethical obligations to the environment and the people of The Gambia. The exploitation of Salagi Forest Park is not only a breach of the law but a grave disservice to future generations,” the release concludes.
