The Government has stepped up efforts to unlock Zambia’s forestry potential as part of its broader strategy to promote sustainable economic growth and create new investment opportunities.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Dr Gilbert Siame says the country is positioning the forestry sector as a key driver of the Grow Zambia Agenda, with plans to expand commercial forestry plantations by one million hectares.

Dr Siame said government is particularly targeting investments along the Lobito and TAZARA Corridors, where increased timber production, processing and exports could generate jobs, boost local industries and increase government revenue.

He said the expansion of the forestry sector would also help Zambia take advantage of growing opportunities in the regional and international timber markets while promoting sustainable management of the country’s forest resources.

Dr Siame further disclosed that the sector is receiving support from the World Bank Group, while there is growing interest from members of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Douty Chibamba said the introduction and expansion of outgrower schemes would play an important role in strengthening Zambia’s green economy by giving communities and small-scale producers an opportunity to participate in forestry value chains.

Chinese investors have also expressed interest in supporting fruit tree planting initiatives, while proposing stronger compliance partnerships with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).

The developments are expected to open up opportunities in plantation development, timber processing, agroforestry and related value chains, particularly in areas connected to Zambia’s major transport corridors.

Government says greater private-sector participation, coupled with responsible environmental management, will be critical to turning Zambia’s forest resources into a sustainable source of jobs, investment and economic growth.