Logging and illegal timber threaten Cameroon's forestsCEFR A2
16 Dec 2025
Adapted from Jean Sovon, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Angelo Casto, Unsplash
Cameroon has nearly 22 million hectares of forest, covering about 45% of the country. It is the second‑largest rainforest area in the Congo Basin after the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Demand for rare tropical species has grown since the early 1990s. The country set rules for timber harvesting and reforestation, but authorities often struggle to enforce them. Exports fell to Europe and then shifted toward Asian markets, including China.
Weak control and cross‑border routes let illegal wood move to neighbouring states. This causes damage to biodiversity, local communities and state income.
Difficult words
- hectare — unit to measure land areahectares
- rainforest — a large, wet forest with many plants
- demand — need or want for a product
- reforestation — planting trees to replace lost forest
- enforce — make sure rules are followed
- biodiversity — different kinds of life in nature
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do weak control and cross-border routes help illegal wood move to other countries?
- What could authorities do to protect forests and local communities?
Related articles
Study warns of heavier rain and hotter nights in Tanzania
New research warns parts of Tanzania will see more extreme rainfall and rising temperatures. Experts say farmers, health and cities will be affected and call for stronger national policies, preparedness and community climate finance.
Mining pressure threatens large areas of the Brazilian Amazon
A study warns that mining for minerals used in clean energy could threaten nearly 363,000 square kilometres of the Brazilian Legal Amazon. The area is mostly forest and is home to many indigenous people and quilombola communities.
