Forestry Commission impounds 20 trucks in charcoal bust

The Forestry Commission impounded 20 trucks and seized 4,000 bags of charcoal and 300 cubic metres of firewood during a major August 2026 operation in Harare Metropolitan Province. The sweep targeted illegal forest trade hotspots in Mbare, Chitungwiza, and Highfield under the 'No To Indigenous Firewood' campaign. Officials also inspected vehicles supplying firewood to the capital, uncovering widespread illegal logging. The operation exposed the scale of illegal logging and charcoal production in urban areas, with large quantities of indigenous wood confiscated from illegal traders. The commission conducted vehicle inspections and market raids across the province. The operation uncovered widespread illegal logging and charcoal production supplying Harare's urban market.