Society

WildAid salutes enactment of new forestry, wildlife law.

File photo of President Paul Biya signing decree

International environmental organisation, WildAid, has lauded the government of Cameroon following the enactment of a new forestry and wildlife law.
The act, which lays down forestry and wildlife regulations, was enacted by the President of the Republic Paul Biya last July 24.

The law covers rules governing the conservation, protection, exploitation and surveillance of forest cover, restoration of forest landscapes, as well as development and renewal of forest and wildlife resources of forest areas.

The law further covers the fight against deforestation and forest degradation, forest security areas, and the legality and traceability of forest and wildlife products.

It equally incorporates the customary rights and rights of use of local communities.

According to WildAid’s Representative for French-speaking Africa, Jennifer Biffot, the law which has gone into force is a bold statement of government’s determination to preserve Cameroon’s rich biodiversity.

“WildAid congratulates the Cameroonian authorities on the adoption of a new law on wildlife, forests and fisheries,” she said, adding that: “This legislative step represents a significant step forward in the protection and preservation of our nation’s rich biodiversity”.

The organisation also saluted the extraordinary efforts and dedication of the local and international organisations for tirelessly championing this cause for its adoption.

The WildAid representative acknowledged that the collaborative efforts of the NGOs have been instrumental in bringing about the revolutionary change in legislation.

The new law provides for stringent penalties, including fines ranging from 20 to 50 million FCFA and prison sentences of 15 to 20 years for those found guilty of slaughtering, capturing, keeping or marketing protected animals on national territory.

“These tough measures underline the government’s commitment to safeguarding our wildlife and send a clear message that illegal activities will not be tolerated,” she commented.

She further expressed WildAid’s commitment to supporting the implementation of this law and to continuing its collaborative efforts to ensure a sustainable and prosperous environment for future generations of Cameroonians.

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Issue No:3184 of Tuesday July 30, 2024