Enhancing the role of forests in the socio-economic development of forested African countries

Abstract

SUMMARY Forests and forestry are extremely important for many African countries as a means of socio-economic development. This can be accomplished by generating revenue and employment and improving the livelihoods of local populations through the accompanying utilities and social actions. To improve the livelihoods of rural villages, it is important to establish a link between their surpluses of production and the legal market. It is also important also to create a strong internal legal market in order to attract investments. Unfortunately organised gangs and corruption have taken control of the local market in many cases and have become involved in deforestation and poaching. Recognising that these countries require responsible players, logging companies that are committed to sustainable development could play a greater part in the local and international development and bring economic growth to these countries. However, the investment climate in many African countries is currently unfavourable due to po...