Kajo-Keji Chiefs Linked to Illegal Timber Trade and Environmental Crimes

(KAJO-KEJI) – The Commissioner of Kajo-Keji County, Hon. Wani Jackson Mule, has directed a complete and immediate halt to all illegal logging and timber harvesting activities in Nyepo, Limi, Liwolo and Kala villages.

This directive, issued on 16 July 2025, was addressed to the County Executive Director, the Directorate of Agriculture, Environment and Forestry, and local security authorities.

Mule also instructed the Area Army Command to ensure that no soldiers or military personnel provide protection to those involved in illegal logging. He said the order follows national and state level ministerial directives already in place, and the county government is taking additional measures to reinforce compliance.

The decision came during a two and a half hour consultative meeting chaired by the Commissioner and attended by key officials from security, forestry and local administration sectors. The goal was to identify the root causes of continued illegal timber activities and to strengthen efforts to protect the environment.

Mr. Godfrey Data Rembe, the County Security Coordinator, raised concerns over weak coordination and pointed a finger at the forestry department for allegedly issuing documentation to illegal loggers.

He stated that some of the permits intercepted by security teams were allegedly authorised by local authorities, including offices in neighbouring counties. He called for a united front and strict adherence to national and state-level environmental regulations.

However, Acting Director of Agriculture, Environment and Forestry, Mr. Beden Nelson Wani, denied his department had issued any permits for logging since 2020. He noted that the problem is made worse by insecurity in the area, but affirmed the department’s commitment to enforcing laws and conserving the environment in Kajo-Keji.

Col. Nathaniel Mawa, the County Police Director, defended the role of security forces and denied public allegations suggesting their involvement in protecting illegal logging operations. He explained that police deployments only take place after verifying that documents presented are genuine. He also highlighted operational challenges faced by his team, such as the lack of basic office supplies, but confirmed that police services remain free to the public.

The meeting concluded with a strong consensus to initiate reforms at all levels of local government and institutions involved in land and forest management.

The Commissioner stated that the crackdown on illegal logging is not only about enforcing laws but also about safeguarding South Sudan’s natural resources for future generations.

Affected Villages in Logging Ban