The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Angolan communities criticise timber exploration without sustainable development plan
Timber exports bring in large amounts of cash, but benefits aren’t seen by local people
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.By Pedro Tchindele for Radio Ecclesia in Angola
Residents of Babaera, in Ganda municipality in the Angolan province of Benguela, are concerned about the excessive exploitation of wood, without seeing benefits to the community.
Activists warn of the consequences of deforestation, highlighting that Chinese companies have been the only beneficiaries, taking thousands of tons of wood abroad, without commitment to sustainable development or social responsibility towards communities. Pedro Tchindele of Radio Ecclesia spoke to residents and activists who believe that communities should be empowered, while government officials declined to be interviewed but agreed that the industry needs better regulation.
Listen to Pedro’s full report here (in Portuguese).
This article is reproduced here as part of the African Conservation Journalism Programme, funded in Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe by USAID’s VukaNow: Activity. Implemented by the international conservation organization Space for Giants, it aims to expand the reach of conservation and environmental journalism in Africa, and bring more African voices into the international conservation debate.Written articles from the Mozambican and Angolan cohorts are translated from Portuguese. Broadcast stories remain in the original language.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments