A vehicle loaded with charcoal on Mundri-Juba road on 4th Feb 2024 Photo Credit: Charles Wote/Eye Radio

The Commissioner of Magwi County in Eastern Equatoria State has announced an immediate ban on the export of charcoal in an effort to end illegal logging in the area.

In an order issued yesterday, Commissioner Pole-pole Benjamin Olum directed a complete ban on the export of charcoal produced in Magwi County to other countries.

Pole-pole said the move is meant to enforce earlier directives by Governor Louis Lobong Lojore and the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Forestry, which prohibited illegal logging.

He also instructed local authorities to seize all charcoal intended for export; whether in the forest, in storage, or loaded on vehicles.

According to the commissioner, the confiscated charcoal will become a government property and will be sold at public action and its proceeds be allocated for the rehabilitation of Alia Ngomoromo Road.

Pole-pole warned that individuals or groups who violate the order will face severe penalties, including heavy fines, arrest, and legal prosecution.

He further directed security agencies in the county to implement the order without delay.