South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has issued a stern warning to those defying a national directive to stop illegal logging, which has surged across the country, especially in Central Equatoria State.
The warning follows a high-level meeting between Environment Minister, Josephine Napwon Cosmos and Central Equatoria Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede, aimed at boosting joint efforts to protect South Sudan’s forest reserves.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister Napwon emphasised that while the national government sets policy, enforcement depends on cooperation at all levels.
“The state government must implement the orders with the support of technical experts from the Ministry of Environment,” she said. “These experts have the right to review all techniques and ensure compliance in any forest-related activities.”
Napwon warned that without urgent intervention, the degradation of forest ecosystems could have long-term consequences for climate resilience and rural livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu echoed the minister’s call for stronger coordination, noting that forest protection is a shared responsibility involving multiple sectors.
“The main purpose of our meeting is to enhance cooperation between the national ministry and the Central Equatoria State government,” Lukudu said.
“Protecting the environment is not just a task for one institution. It involves everyone, including some members of the organised forces who may be drawn into illegal activities due to their vulnerable living conditions, especially in border areas.”
Lukudu stressed the need to crack down on both the illegal trade of forest products and those exploiting security personnel for profit. “We must work together to protect our forest reserves, prevent smuggling, and strengthen security around these critical resources,” he said. “Strengthening intergovernmental cooperation is essential to addressing this crisis.”
Illegal logging has emerged as a major threat to South Sudan’s biodiversity, with Central Equatoria among the hardest-hit regions.
