National Forest Policy (2011)

This policy was formally approved by Cabinet in February 2011 after a comprehensive process of consultations with governmental divisions and public stakeholders, conducted during the preceding two years.  The overall purpose of the policy is to ensure the maintenance of biodiversity, forest management for optimum combinations of productive, protective, recreational, aesthetic, scientific and educational benefits, and to contribute to the national economy and livelihoods.  In terms of national parks and other protected areas, the policy requires the protection in perpetuity of those areas of the country which represent significant examples of the country’s natural heritage and encourage public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the heritage in ways which leave it unimpaired for future generations.  The strategies identified include:

1. Provision of recreational and educational opportunities in forest areas
2. Construct amenity facilities to enhance the recreational experience
3. Enactment of legislation for parks and other protected areas
4. Conservation of unique and representative flora, fauna, geology, landscapes, archaeology and other intrinsic features
5. Promote participatory management of parks with local communities and interest groups.

In terms of wildlife management, the policy prescribes the facilitation of the development and adoption of appropriate wildlife habitat and species management plans to produce stable ecosystems and populations. The strategies identified include:

1. Conservation of natural habitats
2. Recover to a secure status all wildlife species threatened with extinction
3. Manage habitats and migratory wildlife species for their intrinsic, scientific and recreational value.