Government to introduce stricter rules on charcoal production

The Ministry of Environment has announced plans to tighten control over charcoal production by requiring all producers to obtain licenses before engaging in the trade.

The move aims to address the environmental damage caused by deforestation while formalizing an industry that has long operated informally.

In a public notice, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale stated that commercial charcoal producers must register with their respective county governments and secure permits before production.

“The new regulations will ensure that charcoal production is sustainable and does not lead to further destruction of our forests,” Duale stated.

The proposed regulations prohibit charcoal production in ecologically sensitive areas, biodiversity hotspots, and regions where endangered species are at risk.

Additionally, applicants must demonstrate the use of efficient production technologies and submit a detailed conservation and management plan for their sites.

Charcoal producers will also be required to follow strict packaging and labeling guidelines.

All charcoal must be packaged in approved materials such as synthetic fiber sacks, paper, gunny bags, or plastic film sacks. Each package must be clearly labeled with the producer’s name and address, the production site, weight, tree species used, and the technology employed.

The ministry emphasized that failure to comply with these regulations will result in penalties, including fines and revocation of licenses.

“The goal is to strike a balance between economic activities and environmental conservation,” Duale added.

The proposal follows growing concerns over the role of charcoal production in deforestation and climate change.

The government is urging stakeholders, including county governments and environmental organizations, to support the implementation of these measures to safeguard the country’s natural resources.