THE government has underscored the need to unlock Zambia’s Forest Economy for sustainable growth through forestry investment in line with the Grow Zambia Agenda. Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Gilbert Siame has noted that the forestry sector has potential to create millions of revenue, create jobs and contribute to Zambia’s growth agenda through forest […]

THE government has underscored the need to unlock Zambia’s Forest Economy for sustainable growth through forestry investment in line with the Grow Zambia Agenda.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Gilbert Siame has noted that the forestry sector has potential to create millions of revenue, create jobs and contribute to Zambia’s growth agenda through forest plantation expansion.

Dr Siame highlighted that his ministry is ready to work with investors and is already identifying geographical areas along the strategic Lobito Corridor for wood-processing industries.

“We have a very good market and can export within the region. We can only win if we do it on a large scale,” he said.

He adds that the World Bank Group is ready to partner and collaborate with the ministry, saying that the government is also calling for investment along the TAZARA Corridor to support its expansion.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce paid a courtesy call on him, Dr Siame highlighted that the ministry is targeting investment to expand forestry plantations by one million hectares. 

The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Douty Chibamba adds that the forestry sector has potential in green economy particularly with the out grower schemes that will feed into the broader vision of the forest plantation.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce President Tie Li said the chamber is ready to work with the ministry in this regard.