Govt warns traditional leaders

The Government has warned traditional leaders against settling people in State forests.

Speaking at Foresthill in Lupane at a Forestry Protection Unit rangers pass out parade of 22 graduates on Thursday, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate Mr Prince Mupazviriho said it is illegal to settle people in forests.

"Government policy is that State forests must not be settled and no forest has been handed over to Government for resettlement purposes.

"My ministry is aware that some chiefs and village heads have taken it upon themselves to allocate land within forest areas here in Matabeleland North and Midlands-Mapfungautsi area. Let me go on record saying this is illegal," said Mr Mupazviriho.

He said his ministry is working with other ministries to address the issue of those who are already settled in the prohibited areas.

"We are working closely with ministries responsible for rural resources and land resettlement to see how best we can resolve the matter," said Mr Mupazviriho.

In March, Midlands provincial forest extension manager, Mr Rodrick Nyahwai, said due to the illegal settlements in Mapfungautsi forest the country is losing potential revenue as the settlers are cutting down trees.

Speaking at the pass out parade, Forestry Chief Security Officer, Mr Peter Mushunje, said their rangers had archaic equipment.

He urged the Government to upgrade their weapons and equip them with the latest technology to help fight poachers who are using modern equipment.