TIMBER PRODUCERS ALLEGE GROWING ILLEGAL MUKULA TRADE AMONG POLITICALLY EXPOSED PERSONS

 The Timber Producers’ Association of Zambia has disclosed that illegal Mukula trade has continued, three years since the ban on Mukula was effected, with politically exposed persons at the forefront.

Association President Charles Masange tells Phoenix News that there are currently containers of Mukula in Nakonde being traded by some elite Zambian nationals with Chinese buyers.

Mr. Masange has wondered why the government has remained mute on the ban of Mukula trade, including the existing licenses and production permits that were granted by the previous government but have not been honored.

He tells Phoenix News that former Green Economy and Environment Minister Collins Nzovu made numerous promises on when the ban would be lifted but that President Hakainde Hichilema has not spoken about Mukula since assuming office.

Mr. Masange further laments that all correspondence with relevant government ministries and toward the head of state, have not been responded to, leaving the timber traders worried about the status quo.

PHOENIX NEWS