The East Africa Farmers Federation is urging East African Community member countries to harmonize laws on management of natural resources. The Federation’s CEO, Stephen Muchiri says deforestation is negatively affecting agriculture which is a key sector that supports the region’s economy.
Forestry is viewed as one of the most important sectors globally.
In the East African region about 22 percent of the total land area excluding water bodies, is under natural forest.
In sub-Saharan Africa about 65% of the total land area is being degraded due to deforestation, which is affecting important sectors such as agriculture and tourism.
It is in light of this that EAC member countries have been asked to harmonize relevant laws in the management of forests and natural resources.
Muchiri however blamed farmers for not conserving forests around them in their pursuit for sources of fuel.
The concerns were raised during a two day meeting organized by Eastern Africa Farmers Federation, Center for International Forestry Research and the East African Legislative Assembly to oversee amendments of some clauses in the EAC Forest Management and Protection Bill 2015.
Source: KBC

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