Africa-Press – Angola. More than nine thousand cubic meters of wood were harvested in 2023 in the province of Cabinda, which represented a drop in the production of this forest resource, compared to the previous period, which recorded 14 thousand and 804 cubic meters.
The production of manufactured wood in 2023 allowed the collection of US$600,558, compared to the US$869,606 collected in 2022, according to the forestry inspection technician at the Forestry Development Institute (IDF), Noel Luzolo Mavungo.
Regarding World Forestry Day, which takes place this Thursday (21st), the source explained that the drop in production and, consequently, in revenue was due to the ban on exports of round wood. , to favor the internal market.
The forestry specialist also recalled that, currently, only the export of manufactured wood in the country is authorized, with the aim of boosting local industries and increasing the level of employability in Angola.
On the occasion, he mentioned that, this year, 11 timber exploration companies were licensed, compared to nine in 2022, with each company having the right to explore 500 cubic meters in a thousand hectares.
Regarding the repopulation of forests, the technician said that there has been, since 2019, a joint project between the IDF and the 11 de Novembro University, which allowed studies to be carried out on seed suitability, application of seeds from native species in forests, monitoring of growth rate and assessment of the level of development of the species itself.
In this context, he mentioned that a nursery was created next to the Polytechnic Institute of the 11 de Novembro University, where there are already some seedlings for planting in September this year.
On the other hand, he highlighted that the survey is underway to identify the devastated areas, with the support of companies, traditional authorities and the population in general, with a view to starting the reforestation process throughout this year.
Noel Luzolo Mavungo also added that there are concrete programs at the sector level, for the diversification of the national economy.
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