Port Authorities Impound Rosewood In Mombasa

The wood was being shipped from Madagascar when it was captured by officials at the port.

The shipment had been declared as ordinary wood from Kenya to trick the officials at the port.

Logging of rare woods such as rosewood and ebony has been banned by the Malagasy government.

The rosewood was contained in 34 containers and weighed 640 tonnes.

The shipment was destined for Hong Kong.

The product is highly required in Asia where they are used to make luxury furniture

Illegal logging of rosewood in forests in Madagascar rainforests has worsened since a coup in 2009.

Madagascar is one of Africa’s poorest nations.

It is known for its rich biodiversity which is constantly threatened by smugglers.

By: Cecilia Garama

Source: BBC