By Correspondent

The County Commissioner of Yei River, Central Equatoria State, has suspended all logging activities by individuals and companies in the region, to avert the rising cases of illegal logging.

The announcement was made following widespread reports of illegal logging activities in Yei, Morobo, Lainya, and Kajo-Keji counties.

Various individuals and companies have been blamed for orchestrating the activity, and clearing the forests unregulated.

“This Order shall be cited as Order N0. 003/2025 for suspension of all individuals and companies dealing in activities/business of logging, timbers and poles within Yei River County and shall come into force on the date of its signature by the Commissioner,” a statement signed by Commissioner Seme read in part.

“In exercise of the powers conferred upon me by Republican Decree No.193 for year 2024 AD, and in accordance with the local government Act 2009, Section 52 sub section (a), (c) and (i) as amended.

Illegal logging has been one of the main challenges in Central Equatoria State.

Early February, the state Governor Augustino Jadalla issued an order forming a committee to investigate renewed logging and the sale of old logs intended for road rehabilitation in Kajo-Keji County.

The decision came amid concerns about unauthorized logging and the need for stricter environmental protection.

Jadalla reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources.

“This investigation aims to uphold legal and environmental standards while ensuring that any logging activities and road rehabilitation efforts comply with due process,” he said.

“The committee is tasked with reviewing agreements signed with logging companies to assess their legality and adherence to regulations. It will also investigate the cost of road rehabilitation efforts and evaluate the progress made,” the governor stated.