The Zambian government has stopped the issuance of cordwood permits for charcoal production in an effort to control deforestation.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Collins Nzovu said in a statement that the decision would initially affect three districts with rampant charcoal production.

Mr Nzovu revealed that the problem of charcoal production has been spreading like a wildfire from the central and southern provinces, engulfing other parts of the country.

He said that persons currently in possession of valid cordwood permits have only until May 1 to finalise their charcoal production.

He added that the exercise would be extended to other districts as the ministry assesses tree stock levels nationwide.

He said the ministry recorded increased levels of deforestation and land degradation due to illegal and massive tree cutting down for charcoal production.

According to him, the country is expecting a drought due to poor rains and the massive cutting down of trees over the years, contributing to severe drought.

He called for concerted efforts from stakeholders to reduce the impact of drought by conserving remaining trees across the country.

(Xinhua/NAN)