Mambwe Town Council has unanimously approved an upward adjustment in the charcoal levy, aimed at mitigating rampant deforestation and boosting local revenue generation.
The Council has resolved to revise the charcoal levy for a 50-kilogram from the previous K5 to K10, while the levy for a 90-kilogram was approved at K20 from previously K10.
This resolution was reached during the Second Ordinary Council Meeting held yesterday the 30th of June 2025.
Presenting matters arising from the Finance, Human Resources, and General Purposes Standing Committee, Chairperson Councillor Vincent Zulu highlighted the increasing trend in charcoal prices within the district.
Mr. Zulu noted that this reflects a continued rise in tree cutting for charcoal production, which poses a significant environmental concern.
“The adjustment is intended to discourage excessive charcoal production, protect forest resources, and enhance the Council’s local revenue,” he said.
According to Council Assistant Public Relations Officer, Grace Lungu, the proposal received unanimous support from the councilors.